This research examines the role of individual agency, social negotiation processes, and gender performativity within the context of popular culture, as well as how all three contribute to the formation of an inclusive and egalitarian character. The main focus of the study is to understand how gender representation across various popular culture products (such as social media, film, music, and entertainment) influences how individuals construct their self-identity and interpret social relationships.
Using the framework of gender performativity, this study views gender as a construction that is continuously shaped through social practices and cultural representations. Meanwhile, the concepts of agency and negotiation are used to explain how individuals are not merely passive objects influenced by popular culture, but active agents who interpret, accept, or reject prevailing values.
This study also highlights the potential of popular culture as a strategic space to promote values of inclusivity and equality, while simultaneously critiquing the possible reproduction of gender stereotypes. The findings are expected to contribute to the development of character education strategies that are more responsive to contemporary cultural dynamics.
Researcher: Prof. Aquarini Priyatna, M.A., M.Hum., Ph.D.
This research is highly relevant to several targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 4 (Quality Education). Conducted by Prof. Aquarini Priyatna, the study examines how gender representation in popular culture can build inclusive and egalitarian character while critiquing the potential reproduction of gender stereotypes in society.
Furthermore, by highlighting popular culture as a strategic avenue to instill values of equality, the research findings directly contribute to character education development strategies that adapt to modern dynamics—aligning with efforts toward SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) to create a fairer social environment for all.