Music in Modern Culture

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Every coin has two sides, and the rough side of music’s effect on culture is the negative effects it can have upon young minds. With the experience of music being so close to our psyche as humans, the listener could experience both highs and lows, in an emotional sense. While many of us would feel nothing more than a calming, cathartic effect, some troubled adolescents could be pushed into aggression or feel encouraged in self-destructive habits. Suicides have occurred in the past, while music played in the background, and speculation has occurred that extended listening to certain types of music could lead to antisocial behavior. However, occurrences of this appear to be few and far between. It is often shown that the subject was previously troubled, before music could have been shown as the primary cause. In other words, music is not truly the cause, though it clearly affects the mind and actions of the troubled adolescent. Also, sexual promiscuity and excessive profanity in modern music have also been said to affect young generations. To the casual observer, it may seem clear that both music and society as a whole have become more promiscuous as time passes. The prominent theory is that the explicit nature of some modern music has desensitized today’s youth to immoral thoughts and actions. Though not studied extensively, there is definitely a correlation between the subject matter of music and the actions of the listener; therefore the idea that music affects the psyche in culture cannot be entirely dismissed.

Through observation, it is clear that music is a driving force in society. Listening to music can improve mood, increase productivity, and even encourage growth on an intellectual level. Music education can have an even greater effect. On the negative side, there are also connections between promiscuous or violent music and destructive behavior. However wonderful or terrible it has the potential to be, music is a cornerstone in our culture; as a tool for learning, a method of communication, and, for some, a way of life.

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