Final answer:
Pop culture influences social change by reflecting and shaping societal norms, acting as a platform for new ideas, and reinforcing or challenging existing norms through various forms like art, music, and sports.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pop culture plays a significant role in social change by both reflecting social values and helping to shape societal norms. It's a mirror that shows what society currently values while also being a force that can influence and change those values. Pop culture includes various forms such as art, music, sports, and other forms of entertainment that reach a wide audience and have the power to initiate discussions and bring about shifts in public opinion and behavior. These changes can range from promoting equality and social justice to spurring technological innovation and environmental activism.
When it comes to social change, pop culture can act as a catalyst by providing a platform for new ideas and movements to gain attention and by reinforcing or challenging existing norms. For example, the civil rights movement in the 1960s was reflected in and propelled by music and popular media of the time. Similarly, today's pop culture continues to play a role in highlighting issues such as climate change, mental health, and inclusivity.