The three pictures above include Darth Vader, Family Guy and Michael Jackson.  I have selected the three icons as contemporary icons because they have all played a part in shaping a different form of entertainment.  The first picture is that of the Star Wars character Darth Vader.  Darth Vader is an extremely known movie character that has many fans.  From toys to trading cards Darth Vader has crossed generations.  I personally can remember watching Darth Vader as a child and not surprisingly children are still watching Star Wars and Darth Vader

     The second picture is that of the comedy cartoon Family Guy.  Family Guy is a popular cartoon show that has managed to make two comebacks over the recent years.  The cartoon has a host of well known characters that can be found on all types of products.  The show is one of my favorites that I can never miss.

     The third picture is that of Michael Jackson.  Michael Jackson is popular music artist.  His music has span over the years.  Even after his passing Michael Jackson continues to sell his music to many people and fans.  Even if he is not liked almost everyone could and would recognize Michael Jackson and his work. 

What is Pop Culture?

Popular culture is made up of events, attitudes, items, music and anything else that sets the tone for the culture of society.  Popular culture is present in all time frames throughout history.  Some examples of current pop culture include Facebook.  Facebook has changed the way society communicates with one another.  Facebook is available and used by most of all the younger generation, and has now spread across to almost all generations.

Understanding pop culture is very important in the business world.  It helps business to design and model the business to attract new customers.  It helps to make sure that the business is on the cutting edge and can continue to grow and out do the competition. 

An example of pop culture artifact is The Simpsons.  The Simpsons has become a culture icon.  With several coined phrases and characters that are known across generations The Simpsons would have to be considered a pop culture artifact.