What is the Difference Between Hippie and Hipster?

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The terms "hippie" and "hipster" are often used to describe people who reject mainstream values, dress, and lifestyle. However, they have different origins and characteristics:

Hippie:

  • Originates from the term "hip," which was slang for someone who was "in the know" or "cool" in the jazz subculture.
  • Associated with the counterculture of the 1960s, primarily a youth movement that began in the United States.
  • Hippies often advocate for peace, love, and freedom, and may have a distinctive appearance, such as wearing tie-dye clothing and listening to folk music.
  • The term "hippie" is more traditional and is used to describe someone who participates in or is characterized by a rejection of mainstream values, dress, and lifestyle.

Hipster:

  • The term "hipster" is more recent and is primarily used in British English to describe someone who is considered to be a bit of a misfit or weirdo.
  • Hipsters may share some similarities with hippies in terms of rejecting mainstream values, but they often have a more distinctive and alternative appearance, such as wearing vintage clothing, having unconventional hairstyles, and listening to indie music.

In summary, the main difference between a hippie and a hipster is their origins and the time periods they are associated with. Hippies are connected to the counterculture of the 1960s, while hipsters are a more recent phenomenon, primarily seen in British English. Both terms describe people who reject mainstream values, but they have distinctive appearances and characteristics that set them apart.

Comparative Table: Hippie vs Hipster

Here is a table comparing the differences between a hippie and a hipster:

Feature Hippie Hipster
Origin Part of a countercultural movement in the 1960s and 1970s A modern subculture, originating in the 1990s
Values Rejection of mainstream values, nonviolence, love, and peace Places value on independent thinking, creativity, and artisanal products
Fashion Long hair, casual and unconventional clothing, often in "psychedelic" colors A mix of vintage and contemporary styles, often with a focus on sustainability and artisanal products
Political Views Opposed to the Vietnam War and the government Often not directly engaged in politics
Lifestyle Experimented with communal living, vegetarian diets, and holistic medicine Emphasizes creativity and individuality in various aspects of life
Music Psychedelic rock, folk, and jazz Often appreciates a diverse range of music genres

Hippies emerged in the 1960s as a countercultural movement, advocating for peace, love, and a rejection of mainstream values. They often lived in communal arrangements, adhered to vegetarian diets, and practiced holistic medicine. Hippies were also known for their unique sense of style, featuring long hair and casual, often unconventional clothing.

On the other hand, hipsters are a modern subculture that originated in the 1990s. They place value on independent thinking, creativity, and artisanal products. Hipsters often have a diverse taste in music and fashion, with an emphasis on vintage and contemporary styles. They may also be involved in various aspects of the arts and creative industries.