AlphabetAlphabet: A Biannual Academic Journal on Language, Literary, and Cultural Studies
Vol. 8 No. 1 (2025)

Tumbler and Workplace Position: Representation and Distinction in Digital Meme Culture

Yuniarta, Ajeng (Unknown)
Khairunnisa, Khansa Vitria (Unknown)
Wulandari, Dini Rahma (Unknown)
Priohandoko, Rafli Aditya (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 Aug 2025

Abstract

In today’s digital culture, everyday objects such as tumblers have become symbols of social identity, mediated through memes. This study analyzes memes in social media, especially Instagram posts that show “Kasta Tumbler di Tempat Kerja” shared by an account @luarsekolah, which represents hierarchical position in the workplace through tumbler brand choices. Using Pierre Bourdieu’s theory of distinction and Stuart Hall’s concept of representation, this study examines how brand preferences in choosing tumbler reflect job positions and memes' role as a medium of social criticism in the context of digital culture. Through content analysis and contextual interpretation, the findings of the study highlight how tumbler is not only seen as a bottle only, but also shows lifestyle, social status, and identity in the digital era. In the end, someone’s tumbler choice not only reflects individual preferences, but also social status and how they want to be seen in the community.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

alphabet

Publisher

Subject

Arts Humanities Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

Alphabet is an open-access, biannual journal aimed at advancing and disseminating the state-of-the-art knowledge on language, literary and cultural studies. It instills the etymological spirit of the word alphabetos which means learning or lore acquired through reading. Reading, in this context, ...