Signs of Life in the U.S.A. | Topics for Discussion & Projects

Signs of Life in the U.S.A. Topics for Discussion

Is popular culture synonymous with American culture? What is its significance?

What is the semiotic method? Why are signs important?

What are the questions the student is urged to ask in using the semiotic method to analyze popular culture events?

How is advertising a form of pop culture? What are some of the signs of advertising and what do they depend on?

What is the difference between advertising based on populism and elitism? How can they appeal to the same people?

How does an icon differ from a symbol or a sign? Why must it be interpreted differently?

How does the use of space makes a cultural statement? What are some of the cultural differences between countries and how is this revealed?

Who is Paco Underhill and why is he important?