Hyperculture: Culture and Globalisation

Cultural forms of expression have become increasingly detached from their places of origin, circulating in a hyper-domain of culture where there is no real difference between indigenous and foreign, near and far, the familiar and the exotic. We have all become hypercultural tourists, even in our own culture, experiencing culture as cul-tour. Han poses the question: should we welcome the human of the future as the hypercultural tourist, or should we aspire to a different way of being in the world?

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 106 pages
Publication date: 21 January 2022
Publisher: Polity Press

In the aftermath of globalization, cultural expressions have undergone a remarkable detachment from their original contexts, traversing a vast and interconnected realm of culture where distinctions between indigenous and foreign, near and far, familiar and exotic have blurred. A rich tapestry of heterogeneous cultural elements now coexists harmoniously, akin to the fusion cuisine that liberally incorporates a diverse range of spices, ingredients, and culinary techniques from the global hypercultural pool. Culture is evolving into an unbound, unrestricted, and unraveled phenomenon: a hyperculture. This dynamic culture is characterized by profound hybridization, fusion, and co-appropriation, resulting in a complex and interconnected landscape.

Today, we find ourselves immersed in a hypercultural landscape, even within our own cultural heritage, to which we no longer feel a true belonging. As hypercultural tourists, we embark on voyages through the hyperspace of events, where cultural sightseeing becomes the focal point. We perceive culture as a captivating journey, a cul-tour that enriches our understanding and appreciation of the world.

In his exploration of our contemporary hyperculture, Han delves into the thoughts of influential thinkers such as Hegel, Heidegger, Bauman, and Homi Bhabha. These scholars offer valuable insights into the defining characteristics of this evolving cultural landscape. Han raises an important question: should we embrace the human of the future as a serene hypercultural tourist, or should we aspire to a different way of being in the world?

This inquiry prompts us to reflect on the implications of our hypercultural existence. It challenges us to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of a world where cultural boundaries are increasingly blurred and where individuals navigate a complex web of cultural influences. It prompts us to ask whether we can maintain a sense of authenticity and integrity in a culture that is constantly in flux, or whether we are destined to become mere tourists of our own lives.

As we navigate this hypercultural landscape, it is essential to cultivate a critical awareness of our cultural experiences. We must be open to the influences and exchanges that shape our world, while also striving to maintain a sense of self and identity that is rooted in our unique histories and traditions. We must recognize the power of culture to both unite and divide us, and work towards a future where cultural diversity is celebrated and valued, rather than exploited or marginalized.

In conclusion, the emergence of hyperculture has brought about a profound transformation in the way we perceive and engage with the world. It has blurred the lines between different cultures, creating a rich and diverse tapestry of experiences. While hyperculture offers many benefits, it also poses challenges and requires us to be mindful of our role in shaping this evolving cultural landscape. By cultivating a critical awareness of our cultural experiences, and working towards a future where cultural diversity is valued and celebrated, we can navigate this hypercultural world with greater wisdom and understanding.

Weight: 158g
Dimension: 214 x 258 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509546176