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Generally speaking people are in it for the cycling and the beer: bicycle messengers, subculture and enjoyment

journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 07:21 authored by Ben FinchamBen Fincham
From a study comprising of interviews, ethnography and a survey, this paper examines the cultural affiliation of a group of workers in a dangerous and unconventional occupation bicycle couriering. Returning to the work of Howard Becker, this article examines cultural practices and sensibilities of bicycle couriers, principally in the UK. The idea of a distinct `courier culture is found to be important to couriers. The article also contributes to debates surrounding the concept of `subculture, arguing that it is still a relevant descriptive concept. Further, the role of enjoyment as a factor in the subcultural affiliation of bicycle messengers is examined.

History

Publication status

  • Published

Journal

Sociological Review

ISSN

0038-0261

Publisher

Wiley-Blackwell

Issue

2

Volume

55

Page range

189-202

Pages

14.0

Department affiliated with

  • Sociology and Criminology Publications

Full text available

  • No

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2012-02-06

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