Culture
What is culture?
Culture is the set of shared beliefs, values, norms, and practices that characterize a group of people. Its main components include material culture (physical objects and artifacts) and non-material culture (values, beliefs, customs, and behaviors).
What are social norms?
Social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern behavior within a group or society. They dictate what is considered acceptable or unacceptable in social interactions
What is a subculture?
A subculture is a group within a larger culture that has its own distinct values, beliefs, and behaviors. It often has its own unique styles, traditions, or interests.
What does "norm" mean in a sociological context?
A norm is a standard or rule that governs behavior within a society or group, dictating what is considered acceptable or unacceptable.
Give an example of a value contradiction?
A value contradiction occurs when two or more values held by an individual or society conflict with each other, leading to tension or inconsistency in behavior
What is material culture?
Material culture refers to the physical objects and artifacts that a society creates and uses, such as buildings, clothing, and technology
Give two examples of social norms in everyday life
One example of a social norm is saying "please" and "thank you" as a way to show politeness in interactions. Another example is dressing appropriately for different occasions, such as wearing formal attire to a wedding
Give an example of a subculture and describe its main characteristics.
An example of a subculture is the skateboard community. Its main characteristics include a shared interest in skateboarding, specific clothing styles
Define cultural relativism.
the perspective that a person's beliefs, values, and practices should be understood based on that person's own culture, rather than be judged against the criteria of another culture. It promotes the idea that no culture is superior to another and encourages open-mindedness and understanding
Give an example of culture shock
varies
What is another name for nonmaterial culture?
symbolic culture
What are mores, and why are they important in society?
Mores are strong social norms that reflect a society's moral values and are considered essential for its welfare. They often involve serious consequences if violated, such as laws against theft or violence. Mores help maintain order and protect the community’s ethical standards.
What are some common characteristics of countercultures?
Common characteristics of countercultures include a rejection of mainstream values and norms, the promotion of alternative lifestyles, and a desire for social or political change. Countercultures often create their own symbols, language, and practices to distinguish themselves from the dominant culture. They may also emphasize community and solidarity among members who share similar beliefs.
Define ethnocentrism
the tendency to evaluate other cultures based on the standards and norms of one's own culture, often leading to a belief in the superiority of one’s own culture
What are cultural universals, and why are they important in the study of sociology?
Cultural universals are elements, patterns, or traits that are common to all human cultures, regardless of geographic location or historical context. These universals reflect fundamental human needs and social structures
What is symbolic culture?
Non-material culture/ involves the intangible aspects of culture, such as beliefs, values, norms, and customs
Define folkways and give an example of one. How do they differ from mores?
Folkways are informal norms that govern everyday behavior and social customs. They dictate how people should behave in specific situations but do not carry serious consequences for violations. An example of a folkway is saying "bless you" when someone sneezes. Unlike mores, violations of folkways typically result in mild social disapproval rather than severe penalties.
Give an example of how countercultures bring about change?
The counterculture movement of the 1960s had a profound impact on American society by challenging traditional norms related to war, gender roles, and civil rights. It brought about significant changes, including increased awareness of social issues, the feminist movement, and the environmental movement.
What is "cultural diffusion"?
Cultural diffusion is the spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another, often occurring through trade, migration, or communication, leading to the exchange of ideas, practices, and innovations.
What is the difference between cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation?
Cultural appreciation involves understanding, respecting, and valuing another culture's traditions, practices, and contributions
Cultural appropriation refers to the unauthorized or inappropriate use of elements from one culture by members of another, often without understanding or respecting the original context
How does globalization exemplify cultural diffusion, and what are the potential consequences for cultural identity and preservation?
Cultural globalization leads to the widespread sharing and integration of cultural practices across the globe, often resulting in the diffusion of popular culture (e.g., fast food, music trends). While this can enhance cross-cultural understanding, it may also threaten traditional practices and identities by promoting homogenization. Potential consequences include the loss of unique cultural identities and practices, as local cultures may adapt or disappear in the face of dominant global influences, leading to a form of cultural lag where communities struggle to preserve their heritage amidst rapid change.
Define taboos and discuss their significance in society. Provide an example of a taboo and explain the consequences of violating it.
Taboos are social or cultural prohibitions against certain behaviors, practices, or discussions that are considered morally or socially unacceptable. They are often deeply ingrained in a society and can invoke strong emotional reactions. An example of a taboo is incest
What is the difference between a subculture and a counterculture?
A subculture coexists with the dominant culture and simply offers alternative lifestyles or beliefs without directly opposing mainstream values. In contrast, a counterculture actively rejects and seeks to change the dominant culture's values and norms. Countercultures often advocate for social change and may challenge societal structures.
Define
Functionalism:
Conflict Theory:
Symbolic Interactionism:
views society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote stability and social order. It emphasizes the functions of various social institutions and how they contribute to the overall functioning of society.
focuses on the struggles for power and resources between different social groups
analyzes how individuals create and interpret meanings through social interactions. It emphasizes the role of symbols, language, and gestures in shaping human behavior and societal norms.
Who were the Nacirema? What was the name of the room where they performed ablution ceremonies?