Blog Post Assignment #4-Nguyen
Focusing on the articulations of how media spreads in culture over time and space, the "OH LAWD HE COMIN" cat meme is an example of a participatory culture where users actively engage with and contribute to media content. Users would create their own versions of the meme or simply repost it for others to see. However, this meme also sparked controversy due to its use of African American Vernacular English. The Monterey Bay Aquarium faced backlash for using similar language in social media posts. This engagement illustrates the complexities and contradictions of participatory culture, including issues of cultural appropriation and power dynamics.
In addition, Martin Luther's multimedia campaign during the Protestant Reformation demonstrates how media can shape public opinion, mobilize support, and drive cultural change across geographical boundaries. Luther and his supporters used pamphlets, news ballads, and woodcuts to disseminate their ideas widely and rapidly, engaging ordinary people in the debate about church reform. These media forms allowed Luther to respond quickly to challenges and criticisms. These examples highlight the power of media and its ability to influence culture over time and space.
Overall, OH LAWD HE COMIN" cat meme and Luther's 95 these, can extensively illustrate how media spreads in culture over time and space, despite being from different eras and contexts of being viral.
Hey Xuan,
ReplyDeleteIt is indeed true that the “OH LAWD HE COMIN” cat meme does reflect the participatory culture of digital media. It shows how users consume it but also engage in creating their own versions of it. However, as you mentioned, the meme created some controversy. Its word use highlights the importance of considering the different communities in which we engage. The use of African-American Vernacular English, especially by those who are not from the Black community, points to cultural appropriation, highlighting the difficulties with digital realm communication and cultural respect. As you mention, the use of print media exemplifies the earlier power to transcend and reach a wider audience in the same way that the “OW LAWD HE COMIN” cat meme does.
Hi Nguyen,
ReplyDeleteThe "OH LAWD HE COMIN" cat meme embodies participatory culture through users' active participation in and contribution to media content. Users demonstrate their role in shaping digital culture by remixing, retweeting, and creating their own versions of memes. Yet as you mentioned, the controversy surrounding the meme's use of African American vernacular English also highlights the complexities of engaging with culture, including issues of cultural appropriation and power dynamics.
Hi Nguyen,
ReplyDeleteThe comparison between the "OH LAWD HE COMIN" cat meme and Martin Luther's multimedia campaign during the Protestant Reformation is fascinating, showcasing how media can shape culture across different eras. It's intriguing how both examples highlight the participatory nature of media consumption and production, as well as the controversies and complexities that arise from it.
What other historical examples can you think of that demonstrate the significant impact of media on shaping cultural movements or public opinion?