The course critically examines the relationship between capitalism and popular culture. Students will explore how capitalist systems shape cultural production, societal values, and individual identities while also interrogating the impact of culture on economic structures and ideologies. Using a variety of theoretical texts (Adam Smith, Naomi Klein), classic novels (The Great Gatsby, American Psycho), contemporary films and TV shows (The Wolf of Wall Street, Succession, The Matrix), as well as articles, social media, and pop songs, the course will explore how themes of wealth, consumerism, and social inequality are reflected and critiqued in popular culture. Through active participation, organized debates, oral presentations, and writing and reading exercises, students will hone their critical thinking, communication skills, language proficiency, and cultural literacy. The course will be structured around thematic units, such as the emergence of mass culture, advertising and consumerism, technology and innovation, influencers and social media, portrayals of wealth, power, and inequality, commodification and creativity, as well as imagining post-capitalist futures.
Grading
- Oral participation/attitude/homework (25%)
- Oral presentation (25%)
- Midterm test/ short essay in week 10 (25%)
- Organized debates at the end of the semester (25%)
- Teaching coordinator: Kennedy Kevin
- Teaching coordinator: Langlois Laura Hilary