Final answer:
The TV show 'Friends' serves as an artifact that explains how and why popular culture works in our society.
Step-by-step explanation:
Popular culture plays a significant role in shaping our society, and through a critical and reflective lens, we can better understand how and why it works the way it does. One TV show that serves as an artifact reflecting popular culture is Friends. This sitcom, which aired from 1994 to 2004, captures the essence of popular culture of that time and continues to resonate with audiences today.
Friends portrays a group of young adults living in New York City, addressing themes of friendship, romance, careers, and everyday life. Its humor, relatable characters, and iconic catchphrases have made it a cultural phenomenon. The show's popularity demonstrates how it reflects and influences the attitudes, values, and behaviors of our society.
For example, the show depicts the importance of friendship and the support system it provides. It also showcases the evolving cultural norms and social dynamics of the time, such as the acceptance and celebration of diverse relationships and identities. Through its portrayal of fashion, music, and pop culture references, Friends captures the zeitgeist of the 1990s and early 2000s.