This disagreement seems not only to harm the reputation of straightedgers, but also to hinder it from taking a more active role in getting its messages across. A few websites have become totally devoted to promoting a positive reputation of the straightedge philosophy and attempting to explain what that philosophy is. Overall, it seems that these dissenting opinions are harmful in projecting straightedge views on the rest of society. Although there is a definite ideological aspect to the straightedge group, there is also a strong cultural aspect where music plays a central role in bringing this group together. Although the straightedge movement has been growing, it began deeply seated in the punk culture and hardcore culture.
Many people consider hardcore as punk with a message.
It is characterized by sloppy but intensely hard and fast music and lyrics that are usually screamed. The lyrics are said to be thought-provoking and have an opinion. With this in mind, it seems natural that straightedge, with its strong attitudes about personal choices and actions, developed from this intense and opinionated form of music. In fact, the music seems to play a central role in connecting this culture. Many local and well-known bands put information on their websites that pertain to straightedge, but they also give concert information since concerts are the most communal activity in the whole punk scene.