Alternative lifestyle
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
An alternative lifestyle is a lifestyle (a mode or style of conducting one's life) which carries the implication that it is not within the generally perceived cultural norm. Usually, but not always, it implies an affinity or identification within some matching subculture (examples include Hippies, Goth and punk). Traditionally not all minority lifestyles are held to be "alternative"; the term tends to imply newer forms of lifestyle, often based upon enlarged freedoms (especially in the sphere of social styles) or a decision to substitute another approach or not enter the usual expected path in most societies.
The following may be examples which are considered by some to be examples of alternate lifestyles:
- Unusual lifestyle or community, such as communes, communal living, Ecovillage and Permaculture.
- Avoidance of traditional path, such as people who might be said to become lifestyle travellers, Hippies, New age travellers, artists or poets in preference to the norm.
- Vegetarianism or veganism
- Alternative medicine
- Alternative spirituality practices.
- Unusual sexual lifestyle, such as BDSM, swinging or polyamory.
- Unusual cultural focus, such as furry fandom
- Hooliganism or Casual culture.
Alternative lifestyles are sometimes thought be an expression of social rebellion. Some psychologists today, however, believe that alternative lifestyles are not rebellious in nature but only serve to help the individual find balance, or social or personal identity, in what they characterize as a confusing and often brutal world, especially one that seems harmful or wrong and which they lack power individually to change. This is considered by some to be nothing more than an excuse for deviant behavior.
The term alternative lifestyle is occasionally used to describe homosexuality, but this usage is generally considered to be offensive or pejorative, particularly within the gay community itself [1][2]. As evidence has mounted in recent decades to support the biological basis of homosexuality, this particular usage has fallen from favor because the word "lifestyle" conveys a matter of personal choice, while the word "alternative" suggests a less-desirable, abnormal outcome.
[edit] See also
- Alternative culture
- Counterculture
- Hippies
- List of vegetarian communities
- Movement for Compassionate Living
- Simple living
- Sustainable community
- Sustainable living
- World Brotherhood Colonies
- Veganism
- Vegan organic gardening
- Casuals
