Popular Culture: Conversations that matter

A popular culture hub for the issues, events, and cultural moments shaping our world right now. In this category, we delve into the deeper aspects of popular culture, examining the impact of fast fashion, the effects of over-tourism, the significance behind global awareness days, the release of influential books, and evolving narratives within Black culture and beyond.

From headlines to hashtags, Popular Culture dives into the conversations that spark change and reflection. Here, you’ll find thoughtful commentary, critical reviews, and stories that connect the personal to the political — because culture isn’t just what we consume. It’s what we live, question, and carry forward.

Weaponising Anti-Semitism to shut down criticism of Israel

There has been an alarming increase in anti-Semitic incidents in Europe and beyond in the last few years. Many Jewish organisations have started campaigns to raise awareness about anti-Semitism in …

What is gaslighting?

Gaslighting is a term that has gained greater attention in recent years. It is a form of psychological manipulation where one person seeks to make another doubt their own reality, perceptions, and …

Understanding the difference between race, ethnicity, and nationality

In today’s diverse and global society, it is crucial to understand the distinctions between race, ethnicity, and nationality. Increasing awareness of these concepts can lead to a more inclusive …

Samantha Bee faces backlash over Ivanka Trump comments

Samantha Bee has been the focus of Cancel Culture backlash ever since she made an admittedly poor choice of words while describing Ivanka Trump on her television show, Full Frontal. The 48-year-old …

Unravelling the symbolism in Childish Gambino’s “This is America”

Childish Gambino’s “This is America” immediately captured global attention upon its release, opening up conversations around race, gun violence, and social issues in contemporary …

The impact of cultural appropriation on affected communities

Cultural appropriation can be defined as a dominant group adopting elements of a minority culture without acknowledging the original source. More often than not, this occurs without understanding the …

Should racists be forced to learn about other cultures?

Airbnb host Tami Barker, from California, cancelled a guest’s booking on 17 February because the guest was Asian. Law clerk, Dyne Suh, had reserved the cabin in February for herself, her boyfriend and …

Stephen Lawrence killer David Norris suing government for prison assault

David Norris, one of Stephen Lawrence’s killers, is suing the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) after he was allegedly attacked by a black inmate. Norris who is serving a life sentence for killing the …

“These hoes ain’t loyal” preaches pastor Jamal Bryant

A while back I talked about the pastor who wanted his female congregation to attend church literally butt naked and I wondered at the mentality of his followers. Now we have Pastor Jamal Bryant …

Exploring the diversity of religious belief: Monotheism and beyond

Religion has been a cornerstone of human civilisation, influencing cultures, laws, and personal beliefs. At the heart of these religious systems is the concept of divinity—how many gods do we worship, …

Timing of Beyoncé’s Formation is marketing genius

I wasn’t going to comment on the release of Beyoncé’s video Formation on Saturday 6 February because there are already thousands of think pieces out there on the subject whether for or against. Then I …

5 things that will continue to divide black people in 2016

In life, I try to avoid being around negative ignorant people who are too set in their ways to be enlightened. Sadly, I buck up on these people every day on social media. I spent a lot of time …