Ray B. Browne (1922–2009)

In Mission Underway: The History of the Popular Culture Association/American Culture Association and the Popular Culture Movement 1967-2001, Ray B. Browne presents an intellectual autobiography of both the PCA/ACA and his own involvement in the movement. In discussing the importance of popular culture studies, Browne writes, "Popular culture is everyday culture of every kind, those aspects which constitute the lives of large populations as well as those that are restricted to the life style of small groups. In a democracy though it may differ in outward manifestations it is virtually every aspect of all cultures. To teach otherwise, as many instructors do, is to perpetuate false and misleading - and dangerously restricting - information that should not be a part of academia" (pgs. 78-79). Discussing the two organizations, Browne writes, "The Associations and journals are twin heads to the same body, fed by one common heart. Through the years I have deliberately kept the lines between the Journal of Popular Culture and the Journal of American Culture [sic] fuzzy and blurred. There is no difference except as we make it" (pg. 79). Browne originally published this under the title Against Academia: The History of the Popular Culture Association/American Culture Association and the Popular Culture Movement 1967-1988. The change in title demonstrates changing reception to the concept. While Browne and his colleagues originally worked against academia to demonstrate the merit of their field, they now have sufficient legitimacy that they can instead focus on growth in academia throughout the world. This volume will primarily appeal to historians of academia and those who study popular culture.… (más)

I found this a very enjoyable book, and sometimes gripping book. It was even interesting to read about series that I don't read or don't like, just to read the author's take on the series and the time period. In the most interesting articles, the authors analyze usually one, but sometimes two series in terms of the skill with which the author evokes the historical setting, as well as the quality of writing. There were one or two duds that went off into Foucaultian analysis or the like, but I think that most people who enjoy historical mysteries would enjoy this book. And they might find some new series, as well.… (más)