From Punk to Hip-Hop

I’m glad to see that we are making a transition from punk to hip-hop. While hip-hop may not have originated during our time I find it so much easier to relate to. Similar to the evolution of punk, hip-hop has deviated from some of the original ideals it was founded on. Most of these deviations are still common within our present-day culture. In the case of punk however, we are not as familiar since many of its principles are not as common. Additionally, the video titled “Style Wars” puts a good perception on the meaning of a subculture and the struggle between artistic self-expression and socially unacceptable destruction. Some of the individuals go far enough to explain why they choose to “bomb” the subway—introducing us to the artistic aspects. Politics has taken center stage in regards to the issues surrounding the graffiti all over the city and subway lines. A few days ago (when I was responsible for leading the class discussion) I had asked if subculture could effectively generate a reaction from government through their actions? As seen in this video, some would argue the government’s reaction is an intrusion on individuality. However, can individuality exist within a subculture? Doesn’t following the ideals, style, and actions of a subculture make you less of an individual? Or is it possible to distinguish yourself as an individual through actions that are acceptable in the eyes of the subculture (i.e. graffiti)? These were just some things that I found interesting as watched this video.