Respond to two posts, 200 words each

Respond to two other students’ original responses thoughtfully and thoroughly in a manner that invites an extension of the conversation by deadline. In other words, “I totally agree with you.” is NOT a sufficient response. Each peer response should be at least 5 – 6 sentences, or a paragraph in length, and may be longer. 

Classmate A answer

1. Come up with several television shows that serve as examples of “quality” programs and “trashy” programs. What characteristics determine their quality (plots, subject matter, themes, characters…)?

Determining what is considered “quality” or “trashy” programs involves a variety of aspects. Someone may consider a television show “trashy” while another will consider it humorous and enjoyable. In my opinion, I consider reality television shows like Keeping Up With The Kardashians and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills “trashy” or “in bad taste”. The content of these shows put out an unrealistic reality for the viewer while simultaneously being over-dramatic and scripted. There is not a plot or message they are intending to get across and the shows exploit the lives of the people involved. On the other hand, television networks and shows like 60 Minutes, House Hunters, or The Discovery Channel serves a purpose. These programs are either meant to be educational or useful in the day-to-day life of the viewer. These television shows are intended to offer knowledge and useful ideas.

2. Is there anything you can think of that is “universally trashy”? Or universally in good taste?

Throughout the world and society, I don’t believe there is anything that is “universally trashy” or “universally in good taste”. There are a variety of factors that go into the process of deciding what is trashy and what is quality. According to the reading, “people have complex cultural tastes, needs, and interests based on different backgrounds and dispositions” (Media & Culture, 23). Since people with different cultures and backgrounds won’t always agree, it is unrealistic to say that there is a “universal” meaning.

3.On the whole, are Americans seen as having good taste? Why or why not? Is there a country/culture that always seems tasteful in its cultural products?

I think Americans are seen as having good taste. The amount of awards and accredited actors, directors, producers, and writers demonstrates that Americans have the upper-hand with delivering programs in a tasteful manner. Although some cultures view Americans as having “bad taste” because of the amount of reality television and stereotypes, there is no denying that Americans have the creativity, resources, and dedication to make outstanding works of products. Coinciding with this, I believe Americans are always tasteful with their cultural products because of their passion and access to resources.

4.Which model (Culture as Skyscraper or Culture as Map) makes more sense to you and why?

The Culture as a Map makes more sense to me because of the individuality that it allows. According to the reading, “culture is an ongoing and complicated process that allows us to better account for our diverse and individual tastes” (Media & Culture, 22). There is no right or wrong way to view the culture of media and because people come from a variety of different backgrounds, I believe that there shouldn’t be just a straight up and down the spectrum. The Culture as a Map allows for everyone’s needs to be met and for people to express their interests in the ways in which they choose.

Classmate B answer

1. Quality  - The Daily Show with Trevor Noah - The Walking Dead - Sienfield  - South Park Trashy  - TMZ - Keeping up With the Kardashian’s  - Vanderpump rules  -Pushing Daises 

In my opionion these four quality shows are most definitely considered to be quality shows compared to the “trashy” ones. The reason being is because they all in their own way enlighten viewers about what is actually going on in the work at the time. Writers reference important news or show what would happen if the world did things differently. As for the shows that are trashy I don’t see what they really do. Typical plots mainly cameras just follow their day to day arguments here and there but that’s just it. 

2. Something that I believe is universally trashy would be reality shows. Mainly because I feel everything is scripted nothing seems genuine anymore. Universally in good taste would be like the shows I stated above that have quality. In general just having a show that makes people aware about what’s going on in the world today. 

3. Americans do what the can to receive ratings the higher the ratings are the bigger the check. So instead of creating something useful they lean more toward something that will get views hooked such as reality shows. A country that I think is always tasteful in their cultural products is Guatemala. Mainly because everyone seems to be aware of what’s going on in the country and people aren’t left in the dark as much. Every time I go that the impression I get and it’s such a warm feeling because everything feels in sync.

4. The Map Model Makes more sense to me because it all over the place. Looking at its confusing but once you understand the model it’s perfect because not everything is always aligned or organized. And it’s true in a way everything has a different level of importance to different people.