What distinguishes high culture from low or folk culture?

High culture is characterized as the cultural products and practices that are deliberately crafted and promoted by an educated and often elite group. This distinction places high culture in a context of intellectual rigor and artistic refinement, often associated with classical forms of art, literature, and sophisticated performances that appeal to a certain segment of society. The creators of high culture usually possess a higher level of education, training, or specialization in their field, and their works are often positioned as high art, with an emphasis on aesthetics, historical significance, and complex themes.

This aspect of high culture contrasts with low or folk culture, which tends to emerge organically from the everyday practices, traditions, and expressions of the broader masses. While folk culture may represent the shared experiences and values of a community, high culture is more curated and selective, often resulting in a form that is not as readily accessible or relatable to the general public.

In this context, the other options are less accurate because they either imply that high culture springs from popular trends, is created by the masses, or is easily accessible, all of which denote characteristics more aligned with folk or popular culture rather than the intentional craftsmanship associated with high culture.