Seachange : risk for a better life

Risk is a buzz word for the social sciences. In recent years, several theories and studies have explored contemporary understanding of the concept and it’s implications for social action. This paper explores notions of risk within the Australian phenomenon of Seachange. It draws upon Qualitative data collected in 2006 within states of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania. Analysis of this data reveals three major findings that have importance for current and future risk theory. Firstly, lay public comprehension of risk is contextual, relying heavily upon acculturation and interaction with environment. As such, over generalisations from authors like Beck (1992) neglect the effect that culture plays on risk perception. Secondly, within the Seachange phenomenon lies a discourse of risk-taking whereby risks are not avoided but rather consumed in order to find ‘a better life’. This often occurs as a result of dissatisfaction with busy, hectic and risky city lifestyles. Finally, drawing upon works by Rose (1996), it is argued that these risk-takers are an example of the wider discourse in society that entices individuals to make life a project in order to maximise self worth and seek after happiness