Understanding Culture Ch. 3 Sec. 1 Pp. 80-85

What is Culture? Culture – the way of life of people who share similar beliefs and customs Scientists look at eight elements called traits Ethnic group – a group of people who share a common history, language, religion and some physical characteristics

What is Culture Majority group my control wealth and power Minority group is different from the majority In US, Hispanics and African Americans are the largest minority groups

Language Language is a strong unifying force for a culture Dialect – a local from of a language that differs from the same language in other areas

Cultural Traits Religion Daily life (food, clothes, etc.) History Arts Government (democracy, dictatorship, monarchy) Economy

Cultural Changes Cultural diffusion – the process of spreading new knowledge and skills to other cultures 10k years ago, humans learned agriculture Civilizations – highly developed cultures Oldest – Iraq, Egypt, India, China

Cultural Changes Industrial Revolution - 1700s-1800s Information Revolution – computers and instant communication Culture regions – include different countries that have traits in common