Reviewing Culture Online: Post-Institutional Cultural Critique across Platforms

This book explores how ordinary users review cultural products online, examining the communities and platforms that intersect with review genres, including social web platforms. It examines user-generated content in lifestyle communities beyond the professional-amateur divide, drawing on cultural intermediation, platformized cultural production, and post-professionalism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 245 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the fascinating realm of how ordinary users engage in online reviews of a diverse range of cultural products, encompassing everything from books and films to various art objects and consumer products. It offers a comprehensive mapping of diverse communities, both within institutional and non-institutional settings, that intersect with the art of review, particularly in the dynamic realm of the social web, where reviewing takes place on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and Vimeo. By drawing upon key concepts such as cultural intermediation, platformized cultural production, and post-professionalism, the book explores the rich tapestry of user-generated content within lifestyle communities, transcending the traditional binary of professional and amateur production.

The book begins by examining the motivations and practices of ordinary users who engage in online reviews. It explores the ways in which these individuals use digital platforms to express their opinions, share experiences, and connect with others who share their interests. Through in-depth interviews and case studies, the book sheds light on the diverse ways in which users navigate the complex landscape of online reviews, including the challenges they face, the strategies they employ, and the impact they have on the cultural landscape.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of cultural intermediaries in the online review ecosystem. Cultural intermediaries include individuals and organizations that play a crucial role in shaping the discourse around cultural products and in facilitating the exchange of reviews and opinions. The book explores the ways in which these intermediaries influence the way reviews are written, the types of content that are shared, and the overall tone and quality of online reviews.

Another important aspect of the book is the rise of platformized cultural production and the impact it has on the review process. With the advent of social media and other digital platforms, cultural production has become increasingly decentralized and accessible to ordinary users. This has led to the emergence of a new generation of reviewers who are not necessarily professional journalists or cultural critics but who have a strong voice and a unique perspective on the cultural products they review.

The book also examines the role of post-professionalism in the online review ecosystem. Post-professionalism refers to the shift away from traditional professional practices and towards a more decentralized and collaborative approach to cultural production. It encompasses the idea that anyone can become a creator and that the lines between professional and amateur production are increasingly blurred.

In conclusion, this book offers a rich and insightful exploration of the world of online reviews and the diverse communities that intersect with this genre. By examining the motivations, practices, and impact of ordinary users, as well as the role of cultural intermediaries, platformized cultural production, and post-professionalism, the book provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of cultural consumption and the role of digital platforms in shaping it. Whether you are a cultural consumer, a researcher, or an industry professional, this book will be an invaluable resource for understanding the complex dynamics of online reviews and the role they play in shaping our cultural landscape.

Weight: 495g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030848477
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022