Well, first of all as far as I am aware there is no one accepted definition of "classic". For instance some regard Dickens as a classical writer others do not. My own personal opinion runs to the mainly French, Russian and German writers who write what is usually considered worthy but boring and inpenetrable books. There are others like James Joyce for instance.

To answer your question, I guess that popular fiction *can* have mind expanding qualities (just as some popular music can), my point is though, that popular anything (such as art, sculpure, writing, music etc) does not have to pass the same criteria that are applied to the more classical styles, all that is needed is likeability and entertainment. In Australia we have an annual art prize called the Archibald Prize. Every year they have a poll of the workers who set up the exhibits and they choose their selection which is usually likeable and entertaining. The "Experts" then make the official choice which is inevitably worthy but boring to all but the most dedicated elite.

Lets just keep in mind that some people just want to be entertained and get value for money, not everyone is looking for mind expansion and those that are know where to find it!