THE CENTER AND THE PERIPHERAL

Abstract

This article attempts to explain the roles that taxi-dance halls and table-dance clubs play in the lives of two population subgroups in Los Angeles: Whites and Asians/Latinos. In this context, it also attempts to account for the center-peripheral geographical pattern of the two types of clubs. By means of modulated participant observation and GIS computer mapping, the authors came to the conclusion that taxi-dance halls are strong in socioemotional function, which may appeal to the romantic interests of Asians and Latinos, and the table-dance clubs are strong in instrumental function, attracting a predominantly White clientele who seek a safe sexual experience. The hypothesis is supported by comparing the club subcultures, which differ in terms of control, openness, and exclusiveness. Consistent with the functional specialization hypothesis, the locations of the clubs correspond to the ethnic residential distributions in Los Angeles.