Chapter 1 from Barker

First of all, I found it interesting that cultural studies is not clearly defined. The semantics involved with the field of cultural studies both liberates and limits what can be articulated and observed. I also found the discussion about Marxism and capitalism compelling. The fact that capitalism has suceeded and Marxism (socialism) has failed is noteworthy. Perhaps humans need the clear stratification of class with the upper class at one end and the working class at the other. Perhaps this is not evil. Maybe capitalism has suceeded because it allows for upward movement from the factory floor to the office. Where as Marxism tends to assign people their place and obligate them to remain there?