Kitsch, which is thought to be a banal and plain understanding of esthetics, is a notion characteristic of modern culture. Being the expression of an overly sentimental and realistic form of art, kitsch is often viewed as the opposite of real art. In this study, we will provide a brief history of kitsch by examining various views and perceptions about this form of esthetics. The relationship between kitsch and mass culture will be brought to light using several selected examples from history and the thoughts of various historical figures; following this, we will evaluate Thomas Kulka's thoughts on kitsch. The aim of this study is to show that kitsch is viewed as the opposite of art - an alternative devoid of any value. The general view of authors and thinkers writing about kitsch is that this notion is partly used to conceal the dismantling that took place inside art in parallel with modernization, and that it is often considered as a stepping stone for identifying "real" art. Furthermore, these authors/thinkers recommend that the cultural and esthetic position of individuals within society (or the masses) should be reconsidered, and that rather than discourse on the "authenticity" or "realness" of art, there should be a greater focus on the association of art with daily life.