In Defense of Cultural Snobbery

The Role of Cultural Snobbery in Modern Media

As popular culture increasingly leans towards lowbrow content, the concept of cultural snobbery has become a controversial topic. Critics often dismiss those who advocate for higher artistic standards as elitist, but the rise of algorithmic content raises questions about the value of such snobbery in maintaining cultural integrity. In the Netflix romcom Too Much, the character Jess faces criticism for her taste in media, sparking a broader conversation about the role of cultural discernment.

The film highlights the tension between appreciating popular culture and upholding artistic standards. Jess’s ex, Zev, dismisses her preference for shows like Vanderpump Rules and Miley Cyrus as "manufactured bullshit." This scene reflects a common debate: should cultural snobbery be abandoned in favor of accepting all forms of media, or does it serve a purpose in critiquing AI-generated and commercially driven content?

The Evolution of Media Consumption

Historically, cultural snobbery has been tied to intellectual elitism, particularly during the Victorian era. As mass-market literature and populist entertainment like cinema and pop music emerged, traditional hierarchies were challenged. However, these hierarchies often reinforced social divisions based on race, gender, and sexuality. The concept of "rockism," which favored authentic rock music over pop, exemplified this divide.

By the mid-2000s, the poptimism movement emerged to challenge rockism, arguing that all forms of art, including pop music and reality shows, deserved recognition. This shift led to a broader acceptance of lowbrow culture, with academic discussions now including superhero movies and reality TV. However, this inclusivity has also blurred the lines between art and commercialism, especially with the rise of AI-generated content.

AI and the Future of Artistic Integrity

The emergence of AI-generated content introduces new challenges to the debate on cultural snobbery. Critics argue that AI-generated music and videos, often labeled as "slop," prioritize commercialism over artistic value. Platforms like YouTube have issued warnings about repetitive, mass-produced content, highlighting concerns about the impact of such media on mental health and culture.

"Brain rot," a term coined to describe the mental deterioration from consuming trivial online content, reflects the broader unease about AI’s role in media. AI-generated content often lacks originality, relying on existing cultural trends to maximize profitability. This commercial focus has led to a homogenization of media, with endless reboots and spin-offs dominating the entertainment landscape.

Reinstating Cultural Standards

Given the challenges posed by AI-generated content, some argue for the reinstatement of cultural standards. Tech companies prioritize viewership and exploit existing tastes, leading to what critics call "mid TV"—competent but unchallenging shows. This mindset has also reshaped pop music, with algorithms dictating what becomes popular.

Cultural snobbery, while often criticized, may serve as a defense against the commercialization of art. By upholding certain standards, it can help preserve artistic integrity in an era dominated by AI and profit-driven media. However, balancing this with inclusivity remains a key challenge.

In conclusion, cultural snobbery may still have a place in the modern media landscape. While it is important to avoid elitism, upholding artistic standards can help counteract the commercialization and homogenization of content driven by AI and algorithms.