Culture Read chapter 2!
The concept of culture is studied by everyone! sociology anthropology, history Geography Literature Humanities even psychology includes cultural concepts!
Definition of culture: Our text says culture is… “The knowledge, language, values, customs and material objects Passed from person to person, From generation to generation, In human groups or society”
Humans learn culture… HOW? Through interaction, Observation, Imitation, In short, from living in a group
In fact, if you have to learn culture from a book, You’re in sad shape!
If you’re human, You’ve experienced culture! Individuals need culture to survive… It’s the info we need to know how to Take care of ourselves Behave Dress What to eat “Get along” in life
Culture is fundamental to society, too. Culture ensures the smooth operation of society-- Every society must meet basic needs of providing food, shelter, safety… How to settle disputes and deal with emotions and what to believe The more consensus on these issues, the better the chance of survival
However… It’s a balancing act. The interest of individuals must be balanced with the needs of a society Loss of freedom vs. Not inventing the wheel?
Culture is a system of “rule making” Rules make for an orderly society… Everyone on the same page simplifies things Example: stop n go; Standing in line; greetings
Let’s review… Culture is learned by virtue of living in a group
Both individuals and society need culture… For survival!
Two kinds of culture: Material culture The physical, tangible creations that members make use and share Nonmaterial culture The abstract, intangible human creations (attitudes, beliefs, values, for instance)
Four components of culture: Symbols Language Values Norms
Symbols Anything that meaningfully represents something else
Language: Taler de fransk? Nej, men jeg taler derimod dansk, engelsk og tysk.
Huh?
VALUES: Collective ideas about what’s Right/wrong Good/bad Desirable/undesirable Beautiful/ugly
Values Some examples of American values Individualism Achievement and success Activity and work Science and technology Progress and material comfort Cleanliness
NORMS: Established rules of behavior or standards of conduct We don’t chew food with mouth open We face forward in elevators We hold door open for someone carrying packages We drive on the right side of the road