Today, we will explore something that is constantly present in our lives. It may not always be visible, but it has a significant impact on every aspect of life. Yes, we are talking about culture!
Defining culture is not an easy task. Throughout the years, experts from various fields have provided different explanations of what culture entails. In essence, “culture” refers to the practices, customs, and artifacts that a group of people share in common.
Cultures come in various forms and sizes. Often, cultures are shared within a geographical region. People from the same continent, country, state, or city may share a culture. Your school and family may have their own unique cultures, and the same goes for people in the same age group. Online communities can also have their own culture. Additionally, culture can be shared by individuals of the same race or ethnicity, regardless of their location.
Culture consists of many elements. These elements can be broadly categorized into two groups: nonmaterial and material. Nonmaterial aspects of culture are intangible. This includes practices and customs.
For instance, the values that a group shares are part of the nonmaterial aspect of culture. Language and religion also fall into this category. Traditions, such as holidays and family gatherings, are also considered nonmaterial aspects of culture.
Material items also contribute to culture. These are things created by people within a culture and may influence their way of life and thinking. Examples of material culture include art, literature, and music. Additionally, the food, clothing, and technology commonly used by a group are also part of their culture.
Cultures can evolve over time. This occurs when new individuals join a culture and bring in external practices. Change can also happen when two cultures come into contact with each other. However, many modern-day groups still maintain significant aspects of their culture from their ancient ancestors, making their customs and traditions highly cherished.
It is important to take pride in one’s culture. However, it is crucial to remember that no set of traditions is superior or more important than others. The belief that one’s own culture is superior is referred to as ethnocentrism. History has shown us the consequences of ethnocentrism, leading to violence and genocide. It is always essential to respect the customs of others and follow the golden rule.
How would you describe your culture? This can be a challenging question, especially if you have not given it much thought before. If you are unsure, consider discussing it with your family members and close friends. Together, you may be able to identify the practices that define your culture!
Give It a Try
Ready to continue learning? Engage in one or more of the activities below with a friend or family member.
- Can you summarize your culture in three words? Write a letter or email to a friend or family member describing the words you chose and how they impact your life.
- Choose two countries to research on National Geographic. What similarities do they share? What sets them apart? Create a poster using paper or Canva to showcase your findings, focusing on the cultural aspects of each nation.
- Explore ways to show respect for other cultures. What did you discover? How can you learn about and respect those who are different from you? Summarize your findings for a friend or family member and discuss how you can apply what you’ve learned.
Wonder Sources
- https://www.thoughtco.com/culture-definition-4135409 (accessed 23 Apr. 2021)
- https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/culture-cogsci/ (accessed 23 Apr. 2021)
- http://people.tamu.edu/~i-choudhury/culture.html (accessed 23 Apr. 2021)
- https://learnersdictionary.com/ (accessed 23 Apr. 2021)
FAQ
1. What is culture?
Culture refers to the shared beliefs, values, customs, behaviors, and artifacts that characterize a group or society. It encompasses the way people think, feel, and act, as well as the material and non-material aspects of their lives. Culture is learned and passed down from one generation to another through socialization, and it shapes individuals’ identities and their understanding of the world.
2. How does culture influence our behavior?
Culture influences our behavior by providing us with a set of norms, rules, and expectations that guide our actions. It determines what is considered acceptable or unacceptable in a particular society or group. For example, in some cultures, it may be customary to greet others with a handshake, while in others, a bow or a kiss on the cheek may be more appropriate. Culture also influences our values, beliefs, and attitudes, which in turn shape our behavior and decision-making processes.
3. Is culture static or dynamic?
Culture is dynamic and ever-changing. It evolves over time in response to various factors such as technological advancements, globalization, migration, and social, economic, and political developments. New ideas, practices, and values are constantly introduced, while others may become obsolete. However, certain core elements of culture tend to endure, providing a sense of continuity and identity to individuals and communities.
4. How does culture impact communication?
Culture plays a crucial role in communication. It shapes the way we interpret and convey messages, as well as the etiquette and norms surrounding communication practices. Different cultures may have different communication styles, non-verbal cues, and expectations of directness or indirectness. Misunderstandings and conflicts can arise when individuals from different cultural backgrounds have different communication patterns or interpretations. Understanding and respecting cultural differences in communication can enhance effective and meaningful interactions.
5. Can culture be changed?
Yes, culture can be changed. While certain aspects of culture may be deeply ingrained and resistant to change, cultural change can occur through various mechanisms. For example, exposure to new ideas, experiences, and influences can challenge existing cultural norms and practices. Social movements, technological advancements, and shifts in societal values can also drive cultural change. However, changing culture requires time, collective efforts, and a willingness to adapt and embrace new perspectives.
6. How does culture impact identity?
Culture plays a significant role in shaping individuals’ identities. It provides a framework of shared beliefs, values, and practices that individuals use to define themselves and understand their place in the world. Cultural identity is closely tied to one’s sense of belonging, self-esteem, and self-expression. It influences individuals’ attitudes, aspirations, and behaviors, as well as their relationships with others. Cultural identity is not fixed and can evolve as individuals navigate different cultural contexts and experiences.
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