top of page
Writer's pictureCaitlin May

'Larrikin' humour vs PC language

Being laidback and having a laugh are both hallmarks of the Australian cultural identity, but there are times when this relaxed attitude doesn't necessarily align with the aims of politically correct language.


This article explores the conflict between one Aussie value; not taking things too seriously, and another; our spirit of egalitarianism and fairness.



The stereotype of an Aussie 'larrikin' is that of a bloke who likes to joke around, often at the expense of others. As an Aussie slang term, 'larrikin' seems to have fallen out of fashion, but there are still people who view this as the dominant 'Aussie' identity.


Discuss as a class: Do you think 'larrikin' humour is compatible with modern values which do not tolerate discrimination in any form?

Comments


bottom of page