In this “culture as a map model,” particular examples are placed in certain spots based on a combination of personal taste and the aesthetic judgments our society makes at particular historical times. Examples are placed at “stations” of the map where different tendencies intersect because this model allows for the fact that a cultural product can demonstrate multiple characteristics.

Viewing culture as a map allows us to better account for our individual and varied tastes because it suggests that we can pursue many connections from one cultural place to another and can appreciate a variety of cultural experiences without simply ranking them as either high culture or low culture. Because this map is multidirectional and has intersecting elements, it makes for a more inclusive and flexible way of imagining how culture works.