Explain the difference between subcultures and countercultures; give one example of each from today's society.

Subcultures and countercultures both refer to groups within a larger society that have their own distinct values, norms, and behaviors. However, the key difference lies in their relationship to the dominant culture.

Subcultures are groups that share some values, norms, and behaviors with the dominant culture, but also have their own unique characteristics. They may exist within the larger society without directly opposing or challenging the dominant culture. An example of a subculture in today's society could be the skateboarding community. Skateboarders share some values and norms with the larger society, but also have their own distinct style, language, and social norms.

Countercultures, on the other hand, are groups that actively oppose or challenge the dominant culture and its values. They often seek to create an alternative way of living that is in direct opposition to mainstream society. An example of a counterculture in today's society could be the straight-edge movement, which rejects the use of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco as a form of rebellion against mainstream party culture.

In summary, subcultures maintain some connection to the dominant culture while countercultures actively oppose it. Both types of groups play a role in shaping the diversity and complexity of modern society.