Subcultures: The Backpacker Neo-Tribe

The following research essay is an analysis on the sub-cultural formation of the neo-tribe. In effectively studying neo-tribes, I will endeavour to identify some of their key characteristics and work to highlight the dominant ideals pertained by these modern-day clans. To fully conceptualise the notion of neo-tribes I will use the example of the ‘backpacker’ and identify how they are a neo-tribalistic formation while also drawing on specific examples from backpacker culture to theorise the notion of neo-tribes. Following the analysis on ideology of the neo-tribe, I will focus on how style and space operate in further defining the backpacker tribe from ‘mainstream’ culture, and engage in how cultural capital is gained within the group. Also, in further integrating the concept of subculture and the neo-tribe into everyday life I will use specific examples of the ways in which backpackers experience the travel hub, Bangkok, Thailand, as well as Australian backpacker’s activi...