Week 8: Are Sub-Cultures a Sign of Revolt or an Expression of Style?

Subcultures are often seen as a way of rebelling or as a revolt however more recently we have seen this change with the development of subcultures that seem to be more about style.  Skin heads and punks are two subcultures that are still hugely recognized but perhaps for different reasons.  The punk scene seemed to be hugely influenced by style, it was a massive part of their culture and was used to shock and scare people.  It is perhaps the style that is  remembered more than the points they were trying to make about economic conditions.  Recently we are seeing more subcultures develop such as emo's and goth's however it would seem that these groups of people are heavily based on the way they look and are not focused on trying to prove anything.  In the past subcultures were used to revolt, skinheads wanted to try and prove points about work as well as rebelling against family etc.  Over the years however it would seem that subculture has definitely morphed into being mainly a style conscious thing.

Week 7 – Can Popular Music be a genuine force for political change?

In more recent times we have begun to see music used more and more to raise awareness and to motivate people.  Everybody listens to music at some point during the day whether it is on the radio or just by being in a shop that plays music however it is not altogether clear if the music changes peoples opinions on things or not.  Popular music can only be a genuine force for political change if the listener decides to listen to the message within the music, it is extremely easy for people to turn off a song that does not interest them therefore the point of a political message is lost.  Bands such as Green Day have used their music to show their own political views however we cannot be certain as to if the music is popular for that reason alone.  Music can only be a genuine force if the listeners and audience are willing to listen however this does not mean that it cannot try.