Larrikinism
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Larrikinism is the name given to the Australian folk tradition of irreverence, mockery of authority and disregard for rigid norms of propriety. Larrikinism often, but not always, includes elements of self-deprecating humour.
Etymology
While the origins of the Australian word "larrikin" are not known for sure, it seems likely that it arose from the Irish pronunciation of the word 'larking'. People who are larking are larrikins. The term arose to describe an individual who possesses these characteristics or behavioural traits, but is essentially derived from the "larrikins" known as the Rocks Push, a criminal gang in Sydney during the late-19th and early-20th centuries, noted for their antisocial behaviour and gang-specific dress codes.Evolution of Larrikin culture
Many commentators have noted the larrikin streak in Australian culture, and have theorised about its origins. Some say that larrikinism arose as a reaction to corrupt, arbitrary authority during Australia's days as a penal colony, or as a reaction to norms of propriety imposed by officials from Britain on the young country.Larrikinism is a significant element in Australian culture, and has emerged repeatedly, informing Australian contemporary art, popular and youth culture and political debate. Evidence of the larrikin influence includes traditions of free, rule-defying experimentalism in Australian art and underground music (various renowned experimental ensembles that emerged from the post punk movement are examples).
It can be argued that the larrikin tradition of disdain for authority, propriety and the often conservative norms of bourgeois Australia (as evident, for example, in the country's history of censorship and the nation's receptiveness to paternalistic leaders) are two sides of a self-reinforcing dynamic; the social conservatism of the mainstream fuels the undercurrent of larrikinism and rebellion, which, in turn, is seen as demonstrating that a firm hand is needed. This is sometimes referred to as the "larrikin-wowser nexus", "wowser" being an Australian colloquial term for a person of puritanical mores.
Larrikin
| The [Neutral point of view>neutrality] of this article is [NPOV disputedisputed]. Please see the discussion on the [social norms. They also are not at all fazed by authorities of all kinds, including whatever power or authority they may possess themselves. A larrikin must not take themselves too seriously. For the preceding two reasons, someone like the deceased Australian media magnate Kerry Packer may not have been a larrikin as he took his own power and authority, as well as that of other media companies and the government, seriously. But his personality might have seen him classified as a larrikin were he not wealthy and influential. Below is a list of famous larrikins, not all of whom satisfy every criterion. 18th and 19th century larrikins20th century larrikins21st century larrikins
See also
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