MOCa Test Australia PDF: Unpacking the Narratives of Affect in Australian Identity

The recent 'brumby debates' surrounding feral horses in Kosciuszko National Park have brought attention to the complex relationship between humans and animals in the Australian landscape. At the heart of this debate lies a narrative of affect, one that explores the significance of the horse in shaping Australian national identity.

For many Australians, the horse is deeply ingrained in their cultural heritage, from museum exhibitions to the Melbourne Cup. However, the exact nature of its importance remains unclear and imprecise. This essay seeks to address this issue by examining how historical figures such as convicts, free settlers, bushrangers, and ANZACs are associated with contemporary identity in Australia.

Using evidence from the 2003 Australian Survey of Social Attitudes, we find that historical figures like the ANZACs and post-World War II immigrants play a significant role in shaping national identity. A substantial majority of Australians consider ANZACs to be important, contradicting recent claims of their demise.

However, social scientists have largely overlooked the role of colonial and post-colonial figures and myths in Australian national identity. The reinvigoration of old sites like Port Arthur and the 2004 bicentenary celebrations in Tasmania highlight the importance of convict and free settler narratives in shaping early colonization.

Furthermore, this essay identifies 'spirituality' and 'ontology' as broad denominators for religion, speculating on a postcolonial ontology centered around home and belonging. It asks what ontological grounds can support respectful dialogue between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, given the violent and traumatic history of colonialism.

Through a reading of Tim Winton's novel The Riders, this essay seeks to challenge white-settler understandings of identity and belonging by highlighting the ancient and sacred relationship between Indigenous people and country. By examining these narratives of affect, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationships between humans and animals in shaping Australian national identity.

In conclusion, this essay argues that an intersectional approach is necessary for fostering respectful dialogue between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. By acknowledging the traumatic history of colonialism and the ongoing impact on Indigenous people's lives, we can begin to build a more inclusive understanding of Australian identity that respects the sovereignty and autonomy of all peoples.

Moca test australia pdf