Racism, Religion, and Pop Culture

This subject explores the phenomenon of fear of the Other—manifesting as racism, Islamophobia, Antisemitism, xenophobia, and other forms of prejudice—and how stigmatised groups, especially younger generations, resist and subvert these forces through protest, media, and pop culture. Drawing on theories from cultural studies, globalisation, identity politics, and media analysis, students will examine how prejudice is produced, reinforced, or challenged, particularly through visual culture and digital media. The subject investigates how comedy, fashion, music, and online platforms are used to confront marginalisation and reclaim representation. It also examines the darker side of pop culture and globalised technologies, exploring how far-right groups, terrorist networks, and extremist movements use media to spread hate, divide communities, and attract new followers across borders. Students will critically explore the intersections of race, religion, media, and power in shaping both dominant narratives and grassroots resistance.