CULTURAL meaning and definition

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What Does Culture Mean?

Culture is a term that is often bandied about, but what exactly does it refer to? In this article, we'll delve into the concept of culture and explore its various meanings.

At its core, culture refers to the collective customs, traditions, and values of a group of people. This can be a society, community, organization, or even a family. Culture is shaped by the history, beliefs, and practices of a particular group, and it plays a significant role in shaping our identities, behaviors, and ways of thinking.

There are many different definitions of culture, depending on the context and perspective. Here are a few:

• Sociologists define culture as "the sum total of a people's way of life" (Kroeber & Kluckhohn, 1952). This includes their language, customs, values, and norms.
• Anthropologists view culture as "a complex whole that includes knowledge, belief, art, morals, law, custom, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by a person as a member of society" (Tylor, 1871).
• Philosophers consider culture to be the expression of human values and principles, which shape our behavior and interactions with others.

In everyday life, culture can refer to:

• A shared set of traditions, customs, and practices that are passed down from generation to generation.
• The way people dress, speak, eat, and celebrate special occasions.
• The values and norms that govern social interactions, such as politeness, respect, or tolerance.
• The arts, music, literature, and other creative expressions that reflect a community's cultural heritage.

Cultural identity is closely tied to our sense of self and belonging. It shapes our worldview, influences our relationships with others, and informs our values and beliefs. For many people, their cultural identity is an integral part of who they are and how they define themselves.

However, culture can also be complex, nuanced, and multifaceted. Many individuals belong to multiple cultures or have cultural backgrounds that blend together in unique ways. In today's globalized world, cultural exchange and fusion are increasingly common, leading to new forms of cultural expression and identity.

In conclusion, culture is a rich and multifaceted concept that encompasses the customs, traditions, values, and practices of a group of people. It plays a vital role in shaping our identities, behaviors, and ways of thinking, and it continues to evolve and adapt in response to changing social, economic, and technological contexts.

References:

Kroeber, A. L., & Kluckhohn, C. (1952). Culture: A Critical Review of Concepts and Definitions. Cambridge University Press.

Tylor, E. B. (1871). Primitive Culture: Researches into the Development of Mythology, Philosophy, Religion, Art, and Custom among "Savage" Races: Canada and United States. John Murray.

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