The TransPacific Gaze and Physical Cultural Studies: The consumption, experience and meaning of hip hop culture among New Zealand youth

Abstract

Recent scholarly analysis of hip hop’s global popularity has focused on its role in defining and expressing particular forms of identity. However, coinciding with this interest are concerns from both scholars and policy makers about particular aspects of some hip hop which has been described as being: “materialistic, misogynistic, homophobic, racist, vulgar and violent” (Chang, 2007: 58). Consequently, public views influenced by the media and politicians have raised concerns and even directed blame at hip hop for social problems such as gangs, negative attitudes towards women and violent crime. Thus we have a globally popular form of physical culture that may be a key part of contemporary youth identity and lifestyles; but which has also been labelled as not only a menace, but a potential threat to society. Rarely are the positives of hip hop recognised, particularly those within youth education programs.  This study examines how global/American hip hop culture has manifested itself within New Zealand youth culture, including how it influences appearance, behaviour, physical activity, sport, fashion, consumption and education. The overall research question focuses on how New Zealand youth define, consume and make sense of hip hop culture?