Straight-Edge

A movement that took it's name from the Minor Threat song of the same name. This movement is largely credited to Ian MacKaye (Teen Idles, Minor Threat, Egg Hunt, Fugazi). While he is a founding member of the straight-edge movement he did not magically create a new way of life. There were people who chose to absatain from drugs, alcohol, and promiscuous sex before the Minor Threat song believe it or not. There is much debate over what the exact definition of a drug is and there is no exact answer. Each practitioner of the straight-edge lifestyle creates their own personalized definition. While straight-edge as a lifestyle (not a movement) was intended to be a positive force it quickly became a dividing force in the underground and violence erupted from it. Not to mention the all-too-common sense of superiority that often (unfortuneately) accompanies this this lifestyle. The 'x' markings on the hands originated as a result of people showing that they willingly chose not to drink. Many people believe that militant straight-edge is called "hardline". This is not true. Hardline is a set of six rules that state in addition to no drugs, alcohol, or sex you also must eat in accordance with a vegan diet, avoid cursing, and not take medicine. Straight-edge is not a movement for people who aren't tough enough for drinking and drugs but for those who have grown frustrated with a lifestyle dominated by those elements.