Babylon

In Rastafarian Christian theology, Babylon represents the corrupt western society. Overthrowing Babylon is a central concern of the religion.

Africa

Africa has a special significance to Rastafarians, who see it as the Promised Land to which they might return once Babylon is overthrown.

London

London is where many of Britain's youth subcultures are based. Hebdige makes several references to London throughout the book.

Safety Pin

Punk style is famous for its safety-pin piercings. The practice has become symbolic of punk "shock chic."

Rod of Correction

A stick, thought to have spiritual significance, often carried by those of Rastafarian belief.

Jamaica

The country of Jamaica, often referred to in Subculture as the "West Indian" origin, features prominently in cultures of Rastafarianism and reggae.

Vaseline

Vaseline is sometimes used by punks to produce gravity-defying hairstyles. It also symbolizes homosexuality in some contexts.

Sound System

Both an object and a...