Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book attempts to bring together and critically engage with two sets of debates. Firstly, that concerned with the construction and deconstruction of identities claimed by much of postmodern theorizing. Secondly, that concerned with urban regeneration, cultural policy and the changing role of the dty. The book focuses on a debate — conducted for the most part in very different arenas — concerned with cultural policy. It attempts to link social and cultural theory, cultural policy and urban regeneration in a way that addresses the theoretical and political dilemmas these throw up. The book also attempts to situate the role of popular culture in a debate in which it has been frequently marginalized. It finally argues for a fundamental re-orientation of popular cultural studies.