Cultural Components Mr. Anaclerio Sociology Unit 2

What is culture? Knowledge, values, customs, and physical objects that are shared by members of a society Unlike most animals, human behavior is LEARNED and based on our culture

Beliefs & Material Culture Material Culture---the concrete, tangible objects of a culture Non-Material Culture---ideas, knowledge, and beliefs that influence people’s behaviors

Two different types Material culture: art, architecture, jewelry, weapons, machinery, clothing, food, music, etc. Nonmaterial culture: language, religion, gestures, symbols, beliefs, and values

Shared Rules Of Conduct Folkways Common Customs Mores Morally Significant Norms Laws Written Rules Of Conduct

NORMS Social Norms are expectations or rules of behavior that develop from generations of accepted values

Norms Norms are based on Values Norms are the rules defining appropriate and inappropriate behavior. Saying please and thank you Leaving a tip Burping/farting in public Respecting people’s personal space

Mores Have a greater moral significance Violations of Mores endangers the well-being & stability of society Do not kill other people Do not steal Do not hurt children Keep your promises Pay back borrowed money

Laws Many mores are formalized into laws Laws against stealing, murder, arson Mores against smoking now a law in public places in Illinois

Folkways Rules that cover customary practices without a moral concern Males—take off hats inside a building Sending “Thank You” notes Using proper table manners Do not eat peas with your fingers Shake hands when you are introduced to someone Get to class on time Do your homework Do not cut in line

Sanctions Rewards & punishments used to encourage conformity Positive: Reward Cheer, smile, pay raise, head nod, badges, ribbons, letters to athletes, trophies, public ceremonies, thumbs up Negative: Punishment grounding for being late, towing a car, frowns, public ridicule, rejection, fines, imprisonment, gossip, being ignored, fired, low grades, office referral

Taboo = social norms that are so strong that people are shunned, banished, or executed if violated

Cultural Universals These items are found in ALL cultures Economy Institutions Arts Language Environment Recreation Beliefs