Subcultures can be defined as, existence of diverse cultures within a larger or, dominant culture. Societies are not completely homogeneous. Generally, Heterogeneous segments or groups coexist within a society, which share distinctive customs and values. These smaller segments conform to the norms and values of dominant or, larger culture. Though, they maintain their own cultural values, norms and traditions as well; which differs from the customs of larger or dominant culture of society. Subcultures are formed on the basis of, mutual historic region, language, religion, and traits.
Ethnic and racial groups are established by the members on account of shared language, attire, heritage and food. For instance, United States is composed of diverse ethnic and racial groups including, African Americans, American Indians, Hispanic Americans etc… These ethnic groups are established, due to common historic region and customs. Hispanic Americans have common traditional cuisines they include, pupusas, tamales, tacos etc… Besides, they have historical link to, “South America” and “Spanish language”. In the same way, American Indians share common historic region; which can be traced back to America or, Alaska.
Whereas, “religious organizations and interest groups” are created on the basis of, common beliefs. Former is the house of worship for the adherent of specific faiths or religion. Later is amalgamation of groups, representing adherents of specific beliefs or religious institution. Religious interest group objective is to protect religious beliefs and values, by shaping state laws or federal legislature. For instance, four different religious system or, belief coexist in Pakistan; among these are, Islam (96.03%), Hinduism (1.85%), Christianity (1.59%) and Ahmadi (0.22%). Followers of each religion has different faiths, beliefs and values. Muslims worship Allah, in “Mosque” whereas, Hindus worship their deities, in “Hindu temple” or, “Mandir”. Furthermore, Christians praise God, in “Church” while, Ahmadi place of worship is “Ahmadi mosque”. For these reasons, various subcultures are shaped and coexist in Pakistani society. Ahamadi and Sunni faiths differ from one another. Sunni sect believe that, “Muhammad” was the last prophet. Whereas, Ahamadis believe that, prophethood still continues in Islam, and “Mirza Ghulam Ahmad” is the prophet who is supposed to come. For the protection of Sunni beliefs and values, religious interest groups (“Majlis-e-Ahrar-e-Islam” and “Jamaat-e-Islami”) architected a movement against Ahamadis. Which claimed that, Ahamadis should be declared as Non-Muslims in Pakistan law. The law was passed in 1974 which redefine status of Ahamadis as, Non-Muslims.
Moreover, other subcultures are shaped by group members on the basis of, shared traits and experiences. Greek life traditions involved housing fraternities and/or sororities is the best example of subcultures based on traits and experiences. Students whose lifestyles are in accordance with any specific sorority, can join the fraternity house. To evaluate students’ eligibility for joining the housing facility, senior members ask the applicants to demonstrate their habits, fashion style and studying habits. Upon fulfilling the criteria, only then they can join the specific sorority. Moreover, in America biker groups are formed due to members’ mutual interest in bikes or, they may share some other interests like tattoos, leather jackets etc…
Written by; Khushdil Khan Kasi
