In the broader non-political sense, can cultural and social conservation of "traditional" beliefs and world views even exist in the mass media dominated world of the 21st century?
How do you define cultural and social "traditional" beliefs?
Which culture?
Which society?
Twentieth-century Americans saw vast changes in the cultural and social roles of women and African-Americans.
Basically any society that doesn't have access to media like we do? Is it possible in the broader non-political sense, for cultural and social conservation of "traditional" beliefs and world views existing in the mass media dominated world of the 21st century?
When a society/village gets access to mass media, they will probably change some of their traditions.
I spent two weeks in Vietnam in 1995, just after the U.S. recognized this impoverished country. It was just becoming exposed to western ideas through mass media. When I returned for two more weeks in 2006, I saw a lot of changes. There was more capitalism and many more TV antennas. Tourists are flocking to this country because of a strong Vietnamese advertising campaign. I'm sure some of their traditions also have changed.
However, the Buddhist shrine in the small hotel in Saigon was still there, and women were still wearing the traditional Vietnamese dress a uniform in some businesses and schools.
To answer your question about whether cultural and social conservation of "traditional" beliefs and worldviews can exist in the mass media dominated world of the 21st century, we need to consider a few factors.
1. Definition of Traditional Beliefs and Worldviews: It's crucial to define what we mean by "traditional" beliefs and worldviews. Traditional beliefs are typically rooted in a specific culture, passed down through generations, and may include religious, spiritual, or cultural practices. Worldviews encompass a broader perspective on life, encompassing beliefs, values, and attitudes that shape how individuals perceive and interpret the world around them.
2. Mass Media Influence: The mass media, including television, internet, social media, and other communication platforms, have undoubtedly had a significant impact on society, providing access to diverse information, ideas, and perspectives. The mass media often present trends, popular culture, and globalized viewpoints that may challenge or override traditional beliefs and worldviews.
3. Cultural and Social Conservation Efforts: Although the mass media dominate the 21st-century world, cultural and social conservation efforts are still possible. Here are a few ways these efforts can persist:
a. Community Organizations and Institutions: Local community organizations and cultural institutions play a vital role in preserving and promoting traditional beliefs and worldviews. They can arrange cultural events, preserve artifacts, offer educational programs, and foster intergenerational transmission of traditional knowledge.
b. Digital Platforms: Despite the influence of mass media, digital platforms can also be utilized for cultural and social conservation. Websites, blogs, social media accounts, and online forums can help communities disseminate and share traditional beliefs and worldviews. It enables individuals to connect with others who share similar values, discourses, and traditions.
c. Education and Formal Institutions: Education systems worldwide have become more inclusive in acknowledging and incorporating various cultural perspectives. By integrating traditional beliefs and worldviews into curricula, educational institutions can help ensure their continuity. This allows younger generations to become aware of and appreciate their cultural heritage.
d. Cultural Tourism and Heritage Preservation: Cultural tourism initiatives and efforts to preserve heritage sites can raise awareness about traditional beliefs and worldviews. This can encourage local communities to maintain their unique cultural identities and pass them down to future generations.
It's important to recognize that the dominance of mass media does pose challenges to cultural and social conservation. However, by acknowledging and proactively engaging in efforts to preserve traditional beliefs and worldviews, these aspects of culture can continue to exist alongside mass media influences in the 21st century.