Suburban Life and the Possibilities of Sharing in Australia

• Thesis: All give and no take? Social change, suburban life and the possibilities of sharing in Australia. By Millie Rooney.

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Abstract

"The act of sharing is attracting increasing attention as a way to address many social and environmental problems. Advocates of sharing can be found in the civil, public and private sectors, with local community groups, large businesses and government agencies all investigating the possibilities of sharing programs. Confidence that sharing promises positive social change is founded on the assumption that modern societies cultivate selfishness and individualism. This critique asserts that a shift towards a more sharing society will not only reduce overall material consumption, but will lead to strong, cohesive communities. In Australia, such critique has centred on the suburbs that house the majority of the population. In this context, I here address the following primary research question: what does it mean to share in Australian suburban life? "