From Sociology to Culture, via Media—Some Thoughts from the Antipodes

Abstract

The paper examines the sociology of culture in Australia and New Zealand, with particular emphasis on the antipodean attitude that arises from the place of these nations and cultures in the larger world system. Recent popular literature is explored as a means of demonstrating the reciprocal movement of culture from centre to periphery and back. The paper closes with observations about practicing sociology in smaller places, with less differentiated professional structures but more interdisciplinary exchange and collaboration.