Philistine: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term originally referred to the Philistines, an ancient group of people living on the southern coast of Canaan.
• In the 19th century, the word began to describe those indifferent to culture, stemming from a conflict between academics and local townspeople.
• In Germany, it was used by literary critics to describe naïve middle-class folks who avoided intellectual discussions.

Literature

• The phrase 'Philistine' was popularized by the writer Matthew Arnold in his 1860 work 'Culture and Anarchy' to critique societal indifference to culture.
• Various authors have used the word in literature to label characters who lack appreciation and understanding of artistry, often highlighting their ignorance.
• Visual artists have also critiqued so-called Philistines through paintings and writings, showcasing the tension between cultural elitism and populism.

Pop Culture

• The term has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows, often depicting characters who are uninterested in or critique the arts.
• In the world of music, bands and artists have utilized 'philistine' to describe mainstream culture's disconnection from deeper artistic expressions.
• The phrase 'cultural philistine' is frequently used in discussions surrounding trends that shun artistic innovation for profit-driven entertainment.

Society

• The label often reflects more than just personal preference; it can indicate class distinctions and societal values regarding education and art.
• Philosophers discuss the term in relation to the tension between cultural appreciation and societal norms, particularly how art reflects or shapes ideals.
• In contemporary discussions, being labeled a Philistine might also relate to one's attitude towards modern technology and its impact on creativity and expression.

Psychology

• The use of the word can highlight cognitive biases where individuals disregard information that doesn’t align with their personal tastes.
• Projecting 'philistinism' can act as a defense mechanism, where individuals protect their own insecurities by rejecting unfamiliar art forms.
• Group identity can influence cultural appreciation, where individuals may adopt a philistine attitude to align with peers who share similar tastes.