Goth and Industrial Cultures 93
Contextualized in Kant ’ s transcendental deduction ( as processed through the mechanics of symbolic interaction ), the data suggests that how GIC is categorized ( i . e ., transcendentally deduced ) by its participants differs from the categorization common in the larger society . The meaning ( or lack thereof ) of symbols for participants in GIC differ from the meanings attached to the same symbols by the larger society . For GIC participants , the symbols and rituals associated with the culture are associated with a passion for the music , an identification and attraction to the scene , and an opportunity for actualization through self-expression . This interpretation is quite different than that of the larger society ’ s categorization of GIC as being socially deviant and whose members are prone to violence and Satan worship .
Conclusion
Data from ethnographic fieldwork and visual sociology , among this population at this site , was inconsistent with representations of GIC common in the larger society . Involvement in the culture was motivated by a fondness for the music , the club atmosphere , and a desire for self-expression . Criminal activity was not present ; in fact , those observed presented themselves as orderly , expressive , and tolerant . We suggest that GIC is not the deviant subculture prone to violence as depicted in the media and categorized as such by the larger society .
We do not wish to suggest that GIC is not without those who may act violently or be perceived as deviant . Like any culture or society , GIC has its share of misfits who serve to reinforce negative conceptions . There are some aspects of GIC that may deservedly be categorized as deviant . For example , on at least three occasions a club patron was observed wearing a Nazi SS uniform ( complete with swastika ). Although on the periphery of GIC and not embraced by most members , there does seem to be a “ Neo-Nazi ” contingent . In addition , on the margin of GIC is a bondage , dominant / submissive , sadomasochistic sexual theme that even the most accepting person may categorize as “ deviant .” Just how these two ideologies / lifestyles attached to GIC and their significance vis-a-vis the culture remains unclear . That is a topic best left to another study .
California State University , Northridge D . A . Lopez and Karith A . Meyers
Works Cited
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