The Power of Hegemony

Hegemony seems to be a topic that very few in our society have words to explain or express knowledge about. Yet, it seems to be a mainstream form of imperial dominance that encompasses most of our world and our society. So the question remains, why is this so hard to pin point where popular items come from? We are constantly debating what is more predominant in pop culture. From music, to books, television shows, cars, and even people, we are continuously looking for who dominates our culture. Today marks the 1^st of February and the start of Black History Month. Since 1976, it has been observed in the United States in observance of the history of the African diaspora. This mass displacement of so many individuals all over the world has brought people to America that has helped shaped our nation. People like Martin Luther King Jr. spoke about descendants of Africa being brought over in slave ships and helping to build a nation… OUR nation. The social, cultural, ideological, and sometimes economic influence are far too often exerted by the dominant group. In centuries past a culturally diverse society could easily be manipulated by the wealthy aristocratic society, leaving the lower-class without a voice. The hegemony of our nation is changing. With the advancement of technology and the internet, it has catapulted simplistic ideas that those considered the “lower-class” have presented and are becoming popular. This message holds more power than ever before. Singers and rappers that were once considered to be “noise” for those of “good-taste” are becoming major influences in our society. Videos are becoming viral, making those owners famous and often times reality stars. Whether you’re black, white, brown, yellow, or green, the power of influence now is obtainable to all.