During the late 60's one could see the rise of the "punk" style in its youth. Challenging the norm seemed to be the main goal of the style and music, and would ultimately display one's modernity and self-image. Andy Warhol's Factory had a profound effect on the style in its beginning. The style was most noticeable as a fashion statement against the rest of society. Overall the punk and Warhol's Factory were looked down upon on an academic level and not accepted by the more conservative audience. Since then it would seem that any radical or different trend can be turned to the mainstream and becomes a part of our general society, the question is whether this acceptance of diversity is a blessing or curse?
Technological advances and the increase of the media's influence on society have undoubtedly affected the way our generation has developed. The introduction and commercialization of the internet has deeply impacted society, bringing people together and forming masses where they may have stood alone in the past. That being said we have been allowed more exposure to different styles and ideals. Our technology has formed a very diverse youth, though not always tolerant, but none the less we are composed of many different styles, new and old.
This mass exposure has made the punk style acceptable, for the most part, in today's society and is more popular than when it started. Though it's good that it's accepted now, this defeats the purpose of the style and the very meaning of being a punk, different and lowly. With its acceptance in society it has become a part of the mainstream and created another group to conform to. More moderate punks may be relieved by the acceptance while hardcore punks will only want to find other ways to change and stand out. It's no doubt that this diverse culture has made it hard for anyone to be different or original. Perhaps a lack of anything new and unique will be the cost of our broad acceptance and diversity.
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