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The Bloomsbury Handbook of Popular Music and Social Class

Ed Cooper

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Published in The Bloomsbury Handbook Of Popular Music And Social Class (Bloomsbury Handbooks)

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Popular music is a powerful force in our society. It shapes our culture, our identity, and our understanding of the world around us. But how does popular music intersect with social class? This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the complex relationship between these two phenomena.

The Bloomsbury Handbook of Popular Music and Social Class (Bloomsbury Handbooks)

by Andrew Hudson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5124 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	617 pages

The handbook is divided into four parts. The first part explores the theoretical foundations of the study of popular music and social class. The second part examines the ways in which popular music can reflect and reinforce social stratification. The third part looks at the ways in which popular music can challenge and subvert social class boundaries. The fourth part considers the implications of the relationship between popular music and social class for our understanding of culture, identity, and social change.

This handbook is an essential resource for anyone interested in the intersection of popular music and social class. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, and it offers a wealth of new insights into this important topic.

Part 1: Theoretical Foundations

The first part of the handbook explores the theoretical foundations of the study of popular music and social class. This section provides a critical overview of the major theories that have been used to understand the relationship between these two phenomena.

One of the most influential theories of popular music and social class is the theory of cultural hegemony. This theory argues that popular music is a powerful tool that can be used to maintain the dominance of the ruling class. By promoting values and beliefs that are consistent with the interests of the ruling class, popular music can help to legitimize the existing social order.

Another influential theory is the theory of subculture. This theory argues that popular music can provide a sense of community and belonging for people who feel alienated from mainstream society. Subcultures often develop around particular genres of music, and they can provide a space for people to express their own values and identities.

The first part of the handbook also explores the relationship between popular music and social mobility. This section examines the ways in which popular music can help people to move up or down the social ladder. For example, some studies have shown that people who listen to certain types of music are more likely to achieve higher levels of education and income.

Part 2: Popular Music and Social Stratification

The second part of the handbook examines the ways in which popular music can reflect and reinforce social stratification. This section explores the ways in which different genres of music are associated with different social classes. For example, studies have shown that people who listen to classical music are more likely to be from higher social classes, while people who listen to hip-hop music are more likely to be from lower social classes.

This section also examines the ways in which popular music can be used to create and maintain social boundaries. For example, some studies have shown that people who listen to certain types of music are more likely to discriminate against people who listen to other types of music.

Part 3: Popular Music and Social Class Boundaries

The third part of the handbook looks at the ways in which popular music can challenge and subvert social class boundaries. This section explores the ways in which different genres of music can appeal to people from all walks of life. For example, studies have shown that some types of music, such as rock and roll, can help to break down social barriers and create a sense of unity among people from different social classes.

This section also examines the ways in which popular music can be used to raise awareness of social issues. For example, some studies have shown that music can be an effective tool for promoting social justice and equality.

Part 4: Implications for Culture, Identity, and Social Change

The fourth part of the handbook considers the implications of the relationship between popular music and social class for our understanding of culture, identity, and social change. This section explores the ways in which popular music can shape our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. For example, studies have shown that music can help us to develop our sense of identity, our values, and our beliefs.

This section also examines the ways in which popular music can be used to promote social change. For example, some studies have shown that music can be an effective tool for mobilizing people for social action.

The relationship between popular music and social class is complex and multifaceted. This handbook has provided a comprehensive overview of this important topic, and it has offered a wealth of new insights into the ways in which popular music can reflect, reinforce, and challenge social stratification.

This handbook is an essential resource for anyone interested in the intersection of popular music and social class. It is a valuable contribution to the field, and it will undoubtedly help to shape future research on this important topic.

The Bloomsbury Handbook of Popular Music and Social Class (Bloomsbury Handbooks)

by Andrew Hudson

5 out of 5