Bears are becoming increasingly well know, especially on the gay scene. The group is a subculture as its followers live a specific lifestyle, with certain beliefs and preferences.
According to the Urban Dictionary, a Bear is: “A term used by gay men to describe a husky, large man with a lot of body hair” (Bear).
The term “Bear” was originally popularised by Richard Bulger. In 1887, Bulger and his partner founded Bear Magazine (New). Bears are a subculture within the subculture of LGBT. While based on a description of a certain type of physical appearance, Bears also form an identity and a community on the gay scene.
Non Material
Bears have their own terminology; for example, according to the Urban Dictionary, a “Chaser” is a man who is romantally or sexually attracted to Bears, or one of the sub-Bear descriptions, but it not actually a Bear himself (Urban, b).
Bears also have unofficial beliefs and values. For example, many Bears will not accept slim men as legitimate members. Such Bears often consider their own overweight selves as part of their identity and self-acceptance.
Material
The Bears subculture has its own magazine; it is called “The New Bear Magazine.” The magazine’s website describes it as a lifestyle publication bringing news and general interest to the Bear community (Bear).
Furthermore, there exist meetings and conventions which are exclusively for Bears to attend. There are also contests amongst the Bear world. One example is The International Bear Competition, which is held annually in San Fransico (Bearotic).
Conclusion
Bears form, without doubt, a subculture. Followers tend to be of a certain appearance and attitude. Furthermore, certain material aspects exist which complement the subculture, for example magazines and clubs. Bears are just one subculture which is best known within the GLBT scene.
Works Cited
“Bear.” Urban Dictionary. Web. 13 June 2011.
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=bear
“Chaser.” Urban Dictionary. Web. 13 June 2011.
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=bear%20chaser
“International Bear Competition 2009 Winners.” Bearotic. Web. 13 June 2011.
http://www.bearotic.com/2009/02/17/international-bear-competition-2009-winners/
New Bear Magazine. Web. 13 June 2011. http://www.bear-magazine.com/winter/index.html
