Pseudo-culture

Nature

Forms of cultural expression specifically engineered for the material gain of some group or individual, especially when produced for mass consumption. Such cultural products fail to take account of the cultural differences of distinct communities and tend to erode further any remaining cultural identity.

Claim

Pseudo-culture becomes popular by playing to the most crude, external sentiments of the human mind: greed, fear, lust, insecurity. Subtle qualities such as compassion, service and aspirations to greatness, are rarely cultivated in the fast-moving, commercial world of pseudo-culture.

Counter-claim

Pseudo-culture is a trivial concern that distracts from real issues facing society. While some may lament the rise of superficial trends, these phenomena are merely reflections of human creativity and adaptation. People will always seek entertainment and connection, regardless of its authenticity. Instead of criticizing pseudo-culture, we should embrace the diversity of expression it brings. Focusing on this so-called problem only diverts attention from pressing matters like inequality, climate change, and social justice.