Cultural elitism

Definition

Cultural elitism is the belief that certain cultural expressions, ideas, or artworks are superior and should be reserved for a privileged group of people. This perspective often implies that access to high culture is limited to an elite few, creating barriers for broader public engagement and participation. This can lead to controversies about who gets to define what constitutes 'worthy' culture and can contribute to feelings of exclusion among those not considered part of the elite.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cultural elitism often manifests in the distinction between 'high' and 'low' culture, where high culture is viewed as more valuable or refined.
2. This concept can lead to the exclusion of diverse voices and perspectives in cultural discussions, reinforcing existing power dynamics.
3. Many contemporary artists and movements actively challenge cultural elitism by promoting accessibility and inclusivity in the arts.
4. Cultural elitism can have economic implications, as access to elite cultural experiences often requires significant financial resources.
5. Critics argue that cultural elitism undermines democracy by suggesting that only a select few have the authority to judge artistic worth.

Review Questions

• How does cultural elitism affect the way different communities engage with the arts?
  • Cultural elitism creates barriers for communities by suggesting that only certain cultural expressions are valid or worthy of appreciation. This often means that individuals from marginalized backgrounds may feel excluded from engaging with high culture. As a result, important voices and perspectives may be overlooked or undervalued, leading to a lack of representation within artistic spaces.
• In what ways have artists and movements responded to cultural elitism in their work?
  • Many artists and movements have responded to cultural elitism by emphasizing accessibility and inclusivity in their practices. This includes creating art that reflects diverse experiences and challenges traditional notions of what is considered 'worthy' culture. By advocating for public engagement and community involvement, these artists seek to democratize art and make it more reflective of the broader society.
• Evaluate the impact of cultural elitism on societal perceptions of art and cultural value over time.
  • Cultural elitism has historically shaped societal perceptions by establishing a hierarchy of artistic value, where certain forms of expression are privileged over others. This has led to a narrow definition of what constitutes quality art, often sidelining work that is innovative or representative of diverse communities. Over time, this can perpetuate inequality within the arts, making it crucial for critics and artists alike to challenge these notions to foster a more inclusive understanding of cultural value.

Related terms

Accessibility: The ease with which individuals from various backgrounds can engage with and participate in cultural activities and institutions.

Cultural Capital: The non-financial social assets, such as education, intellect, style of speech, and dress, that promote social mobility in a stratified society.

Institutional Critique:

An art movement that challenges the practices and structures of art institutions, addressing issues of power and authority in the production and distribution of culture.