The Concept of Culture
Culture is the beliefs, values, traditions, social norms, and behaviors that distinguish a people’s way of life. The term may also be used to refer to a particular region or geographic area, such as “Mediterranean culture,” “East Asian culture,” or “North American culture.” Humans all over the world have developed different cultures that are specific to each community.
Cultural studies is the study of these different cultures. It considers their origin, evolution, and current state. The goal is to analyze what makes each culture unique in order to understand how it influences the lives of its members. A broad range of topics are included within the study of culture, from the arts to religion and philosophy. A central tenet of the field is to consider how culture shapes individual behavior and identity.
Traditionally, the concept of culture has been studied by historians and anthropologists. However, in recent years there has been a growing interest amongst many historians and sociologists in the concept of culture as it relates to their respective fields. A new focus on cultural history has shifted attention away from examining major historical events and ruptures in society, to exploring everyday life, the continuities of culture, and the ways in which individuals express their cultural identities.
A basic definition of culture includes non-material culture, such as ideas, beliefs, customs, language, laws, and institutions; as well as material culture, such as art, architecture, tools, and techniques. It is important to note, however, that culture is always evolving. The development of new technologies and cultural changes in the environment are just two examples of how the definition of culture is constantly changing.
Anthropologists have historically approached the concept of culture by considering the Big C and the Little C. The Big C is the general idea that culture exists, while the Little C is specific to a particular cultural group such as the American culture. Over time, anthropologists learned that including the Little C in the Big C limited their understanding of culture and began to develop a more broadly applicable definition.
The concept of culture is a very complex one that has many different meanings and applications. It is important to remember that everyone has their own unique culture, which largely dictates how they view themselves and the people around them. An appreciation of the diversity of cultures in our society is key to creating a just and equitable world.
Incorporating cultural perspectives into policy and program development will help to ensure that all stakeholders are aware of the different needs of the community and are working together toward common goals. For example, incorporating the cultural perspective of the Red Cross into the organization’s policies and procedures will allow employees to recognize the importance of the organization’s role in providing humanitarian aid and services. This understanding will enable the Red Cross to effectively serve its mission of helping all those in need. In addition, it will help to foster an environment of inclusion and understanding that all people are created equal.
Culture is the beliefs, values, traditions, social norms, and behaviors that distinguish a people’s way of life. The term may also be used to refer to a particular region or geographic area, such as “Mediterranean culture,” “East Asian culture,” or “North American culture.” Humans all over the world have developed different cultures that are specific to each community. Cultural studies is the study of these different cultures. It considers their origin, evolution, and current state. The goal is to analyze what makes each culture unique in order to understand how it influences the lives of its members. A broad range of topics are included within the study of culture, from the arts to religion and philosophy. A central tenet of the field is to consider how culture shapes individual behavior and identity. Traditionally, the concept of culture has been studied by historians and anthropologists. However, in recent years there has been a growing interest amongst many historians and sociologists in the concept of culture as it relates to their respective fields. A new focus on cultural history has shifted attention away from examining major historical events and ruptures in society, to exploring everyday life, the continuities of culture, and the ways in which individuals express their cultural identities. A basic definition of culture includes non-material culture, such as ideas, beliefs, customs, language, laws, and institutions; as well as material culture, such as art, architecture, tools, and techniques. It is important to note, however, that culture is always evolving. The development of new technologies and cultural changes in the environment are just two examples of how the definition of culture is constantly changing. Anthropologists have historically approached the concept of culture by considering the Big C and the Little C. The Big C is the general idea that culture exists, while the Little C is specific to a particular cultural group such as the American culture. Over time, anthropologists learned that including the Little C in the Big C limited their understanding of culture and began to develop a more broadly applicable definition. The concept of culture is a very complex one that has many different meanings and applications. It is important to remember that everyone has their own unique culture, which largely dictates how they view themselves and the people around them. An appreciation of the diversity of cultures in our society is key to creating a just and equitable world. Incorporating cultural perspectives into policy and program development will help to ensure that all stakeholders are aware of the different needs of the community and are working together toward common goals. For example, incorporating the cultural perspective of the Red Cross into the organization’s policies and procedures will allow employees to recognize the importance of the organization’s role in providing humanitarian aid and services. This understanding will enable the Red Cross to effectively serve its mission of helping all those in need. In addition, it will help to foster an environment of inclusion and understanding that all people are created equal.