As a labelled 'mosher' for the last 20-odd years I think most people have a point with their definitions. I feel that moshers (or rock fans as they should really be termed) are generally personable and friendly, and are on the whole of above
average intelligence. They are quite chilled out (in my case due to having rock music to channel any aggression that might be lurking...not in a negative way though) but have a chip on their shoulder about the general perception of them by society as a whole.
Back in my day (about 1860) there was even more distrust of moshers as we were a smaller sub-group than is the case now, and we were seen as a subversive influence. I find it hard to credit that this is still the case now, despite the fact that youth anti-social behaviour is often highlighted without any examples of moshers being involved (except as victims :()
I do find the
individuality thing funny though. I always saw myself as an individual, as were my 40 similarly attired acquaintances! Peole who are labelled often shrink into the safety of the genre they're placed in and therefore limit themselves in what they wear and listen to. Genuine
individuality is wearing and listening to exactly what they want without any need to justify themselves. Having said that:
Moshers are generally positive, intelligent and thoughtful people who have always been given a negative reputation without any
justification.
