The study revisited and analyzed the theory of the Culture Industry using TikTok as its digital/virtual space of manifestation. The study focused on the evolution of the theory and its role in media development. It examined the aspects of the theory that remain significant and relevant in analyzing and understanding modern experiences and realities and its limitations in the digital era, especially in an era with artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

Through TikTok, the three dimensions of the Culture Industry theory were understood. The study analyzes the intricate aspects, technical capabilities, and limitations of the platform and its effect on the Filipino users. The study contextualized TikTok and the Culture Industry through surveys and interviews using the Filipino lens from users and content creators alike. TikTok was analyzed based on the theory's political, economic, and psychological dimensions and its capacity to perpetuate power seamlessly, dissolve autonomy and individuality, and create false needs essential to the culture industry. The study also presented additional perspectives and theories to strengthen culture industry as a theory in modern digital times.

Overall, the study exposed the importance of the culture industry as a lens to explain Filipino experiences in contemporary digital and virtual spaces and its capacity to strengthen social order and power in society.

Authors:
Jhed Eduard Guinto, De La Salle University, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Jhed Eduard Villajuan Guinto, LPT, is an academic with 14 years of teaching experience. He is part of the Department of Filipino at De La Salle University - Manila for five years now and also a faculty at Everest International Academy - Manila.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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