Read the following 2 articles and write around 100-150 response to each question based on the reading provided.

1. Brian Cogans article about the punk group Throbbing Gristle argues that it is possible to engage in counter-cultural activity without being swept up by mainstream consumerism. To what extent do you agree with this idea, especially in light of the contemporary music industry? Are they any contemporary bands that you think are similar to Throbbing Gristle in terms of their counter-culture status and legitimacy?

2. Guillermo Gomez-Penas article is a biting and satirical account of globalization and its effects on contemporary culture. What is your reaction to his thesis regarding the mainstream bizarre in light of your own experiences with contemporary media and consumer culture?