Case study 1: In Praise of Beer

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This extract is taken from a lecture in which the speaker identifies what distinctive contribution sociology can make to the study of culture. Drawn from the first part of the lecture, this material is of particular relevance to chapter 2 (modernity) and chapter 3 (globalisation). 

Questions

1. Identify the four phases of the development of beer, as delineated by Chaney, summarising the main characteristics of each phase, in no more than 50 words for each phase. How might a sociologist go about studying the cultural importance of beer-drinking in contemporary culture? What concepts might be important in such a study?
2. What do you think is meant by the idea that beer has become 'a simulacrum of a simulacrum'? You may refer to the passage in your answer, but must use your own words to explain what is meant.
3. Assess whether Chaney has exaggerated the 'significance of beer', proposing arguments both for and against the claim.
4. Chaney goes on to develop a 'discourse approach' to the issues he writes about in the extract. Identify the possible main features of such an approach.
5. How far would you agree that, like CAMRA, middle class social movements can represent the interests of the working class? Give reasons for your decision.
6. What does the history of beer-drinking as described by Chaney tell us about the sociology of culture and leisure? Make reference to the passage in your response.
7. How far do you agree with the proposition that the development of new alcoholic drinks by the brewers are an attempt to capture the youth and female markets, rather than a response to consumer demand?

Source: Inaugural lecture by Professor David Chaney, University of Durham,
entitled 'In Praise of Beer'