Hebdige in his publications argues that the styles of youth subcultures challenge dominion, hegemony as well as social norms. It does this through symbolic forms of resistance which include music and clothing (Hedbige 408). In particular, he lays focus on the evolution of styles in sub cultures. These styles include rockers, punks as well as skin heads. Often, they are treated as threats to public order. Although Williams’ approach lays focus on the concept of ‘subculture’ theory as a viable way of analyzing collective identity, his analysis differ significantly from Hebdige’s approach. This is particularly evident when it comes to his arguments on what should be considered as central to the subculture theory and collective identity
William’s research uses the subculture concept mainly to study music and clothing cultural phenomena. In his argument, he states that there is a tacit assumption that music and clothing is the nexus of subculture phenomena (William 181). He further emphasizes the importance of exploring the emerging importance of the internet in subculture knowledge and participation. He argues that present day changes taking place in societies require re-evaluation of music as central in the concept of subculture theory. He indicates that he has discovered several ways in which youth online identify with subcultures that challenge the traditional belief that music held a central place in youth cultural phenomena. He highlights the importance of embracing contemporary social changes in the society vis-à-vis youth cultural phenomena. Aside from these, he further notes in his study that straightedge youth subcultures prefer to have their interaction through an internet forum. As individuals interact in internet-based cultural sites, they construct and affirm meaningful collective identities based on norms and beliefs that are personally important and that are supported by others.
Works cited
Hebdige, Dick. "Contemporizing ‘subculture’: 30 years to life." European Journal of
Cultural Studies 15.3 (2012): 399-424.
Williams, J. Patrick. "Authentic identities straightedge subculture, music, and the internet."
