Subcultured: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The prefix 'sub-' comes from Latin, meaning 'under' or 'below', indicating something that exists beneath the main culture.
• The term 'culture' has its roots in the Latin 'cultura', which originally referred to agriculture and cultivation, but later evolved to mean shared beliefs and practices.

Sociology

• Subcultures often develop in response to the dominant culture, allowing groups to express their identities and resist mainstream values.
• Members of subcultures typically share interests like music, fashion, or lifestyles that set them apart, fostering a sense of belonging.

Pop Culture

• The punk subculture emerged in the 1970s as a rebellion against mainstream music and fashion, featuring distinct clothing styles and attitudes.
• Goth, hip-hop, and cosplay are all examples of subcultures that have developed unique aesthetics and social norms within larger societies.

Psychology

• Belonging to a subculture can provide individuals with a strong sense of identity and community, often boosting self-esteem and social support.
• Engagement in subcultures is sometimes seen as a coping mechanism through which individuals address feelings of alienation or disconnection from mainstream society.

Literature

• A number of literary works explore subcultures, depicting the challenges and richness of identities beyond the dominant culture.
• Authors like William S. Burroughs and Beat Generation writers often celebrated subcultures in their works, portraying the lives of those on the fringes of society.