Bogatie inalta si incredere scazuta in universul semantic al manelelor

Abstract

This research explores the message of “manele”, a contemporary type of ethno-pop music that is strongly contested by intellectual elites, arguing that manele's semantic universe reproduces representations of the practices of localization of a capitalism tacking Protestant ethic, in which the logic of economic exchange is depicted through the metaphor of the "smecher" (one who is crazy, cunning, or sly) who defeats his enemy. In addition, the celebration of wealth and the ostentatious consumerism are accompanied by the lack of trust in others, inducing feelings of insecurity and causing the individual to return to his family.