1. Schema Activator 3/10/11
Take out the list of scenarios we reviewed last class. Rank the initial behaviors in each scenario by how socially unacceptable they are. 1= the most socially acceptable, 5= the least socially unacceptable.

2. Schema Activator 3/8/11
Last class we read about the Nacirema, or an “outsiders” view of American culture.
Each group will choose an example of material American culture to analyze from an outsider’s perspective like the author did with the Nacirema.
Answer the following questions:
What is the purpose of this object?
How is it used by the society?
Why is it important to the society?
What does this material object tell us about the nonmaterial culture of the society (beliefs, values, etc)?

3. Nacirema Reading
Together: Use a highlighter or underline examples of material or nonmaterial culture in the Nacirema society.
Independently: Go back and label each example “M” if it relates to material culture or “N” if it relates to nonmaterial culture.

4. Scenarios
Read your scenario; each has an initial behavior and a reaction
Is this initial behavior socially acceptable? Why or why not?

5. Nonmaterial Culture Essential vocabulary Values Norms
Sanctions (positive and negative)
Folkways
Mores
Taboo

6. Values
The values by which people define what is desirable or undesirable, good or bad, beautiful or ugly
They guide most of our actions.
Are long range commitments to ends that people share culturally.
Abstract and general.
Describe our "moral" goals in society.
Indicate the standards by which people define their ideas about what is desirable in life.

7. Norms
The expectations (or rules of behavior) that develop out of a group’s values
Can be laws, but they also can be procedures, morals, customs or expectations.
Often are outward expressions of a society's deeply held and shared values.
Are important for defining boundaries.
Ex. In order to belong to a gang, a potential gang member has to learn the "norms" of the gang. Norms define us and them.

8. Sanctions The reactions people receive for following or breaking norms
Positive sanctions: approval of a norm
Material = trophy, money, prize
Nonmaterial = hugs, smiles, high fives
Negative sanctions: disapproval for breaking a norm
Material = being fined in court
Nonmaterial = harsh words, gestures (frowns), stares, clenched jaws

9. Folkways and Mores Folkways – Norms that are not strictly enforce
Sanctions are minimal
Correct manners.
Appropriate dress.
Proper eating behavior.
Mores – Norms that are strictly enforced because they are thought to be essential to the core values of the group
Sanctions are present
Flag burning.
Cheating.

10. Taboo A norm so strong that it often brings revulsion if violated
Severe sanctions; such as prison, banishment, or death
Bigamy
Incest
Cannibalism

11. American Core values America is very diverse
No matter the religion, race, or socioeconomic background, all Americans are believed to share 15 common core values according to sociologist Robin Williams