First published in 1980, this book argues that subcultures are formed in defence of collectively experienced problems that arise from defects and contradictions in social structures. It looks at the development of post-war youth culture in a sociological context and considers the class base of youth subcultures.

Introduction 1. The use of subculture as an analytical tool in sociology 2. Street-wise- the delinquent subculture in sociological theory in Britain and the United States 3. The tippers and the trashers- bohemian and radical traditions in youth culture 4. Bread in Babylon. Black and brown youth 5. The invisible girl. The culture of femininity versus masculinity 6. Subcultures, manufacture culture and the economy. Some consideration of the future; Bibliography; Index