POPULAR CULTURE, ITS CONTRARY INFLUENCE ON HUMAN LIFE AND SPIRITUALITY

This study explores the impact of mass culture on human life and spirituality, investigating its positive and negative consequences in modern society. Mass culture, characterized by globalized media and consumer-driven content, has become a dominant force shaping the values, behaviors, and identities of individuals worldwide. The research examines how mass culture can both connect people across borders, fostering shared experiences and global communication, and simultaneously erode local cultures, individual uniqueness, and spiritual values. The paper emphasizes that while mass culture offers opportunities for cultural exchange and social awareness, it also promotes materialism, superficiality, and conformity. The spread of consumerist ideals through mass media often shifts the focus from inner growth and ethical living to external appearances and instant gratification.