Week 1 Barker, Chapter 1 An Introduction to Cultural Studies

I found this chapter to be somewhat overwhelming as I'm rather unfamiliar with many of the important terms surrounding cultural studies. In my mind, the question becomes three fold. First, what actually is cultural studies? Second, how does cultural studies shift from a study of theories to a place of real world relevance? Third, how does cultural studies play out in regards to the spread of Christianity in culture? There seem to be many different factors according to Barker that determine culture. I think in the West our understanding and support of capitalism carries a particular weight when it comes to identifying our culture.