Culture

Thai folkdancer

Culture can be defined as a set of shared patterns, behaviors, beliefs, and symbols that members of a society use to cope with their surroundings and with one another. This set of shared understandings is transmitted from generation to generation through learning rather than heredity. Culture is manifested through a myriad of human constructs such as language, religion, cuisine, clothing, music, and traditional practices.

The complexity surrounding the concept of culture has resulted in various definitions and interpretations of the term. Most commonly, culture is categorized in the following ways:

• High culture, often associated with the fine arts and humanities.
• A composite of human knowledge, beliefs, and behavior patterns.
• Shared values, perspectives, and practices of a particular society or group.

In essence, culture encompasses all that is not solely a product of genetics. The primary discipline that studies cultures is anthropology, but several other disciplines also contribute to our understanding of culture.

National cultures

Every country possesses a unique cultural identity. This identity includes cultural activities, rituals, beliefs, values, and material goods produced or utilized by the people. Culture shapes the way people perceive and interpret their world and their place in it.

There is a diverse range of cultures across countries. For instance, traditional Japanese practices include wearing kimonos, arranging flowers (ikebana), and tea ceremonies. However, it's essential to recognize that some cultural practices or beliefs, such as discrimination or specific religious customs, may be controversial or even rejected within some societies.

Regional or non-regional cultures

Culture isn't limited to national boundaries. Within a single country, different regions or communities might have distinct cultures, influenced by factors such as history, geography, or migration patterns. Regional dialects, musical styles, or dance forms are some manifestations of such micro-cultures.

Subcultures also emerge when a subgroup within a larger culture has beliefs or behaviors that differentiate them from the larger group.

Company cultures

Organizations, including companies, have their own cultures shaped by their histories, leadership, values, and practices. For instance, the work culture in Japanese manufacturing firms is often distinct from that of Western firms. Common practices might include starting the workday with a group exercise or displaying deep loyalty to the company.

High-tech companies, especially in the software and IT sector, might promote a more relaxed work environment, allowing employees to take breaks or engage in recreational activities to foster creativity and innovation.

Anthropology

Anthropology delves deep into studying humans and their interactions. Anthropologists, the professionals in this field, examine how culture influences individuals and societies. Given the dynamic nature of human societies, cultures are in a constant state of flux, adapting and evolving due to migrations, technological advancements, and interactions with different cultures.

For instance, immigrants often bring elements of their native culture to their new homeland, enriching the local culture and paving the way for cultural exchange and amalgamation.

Related pages

• Ethnography
• Cultural studies
• Cultural relativism

References

• [1] Geertz, Clifford. "The Interpretation of Cultures." Basic Books, 1973.

Eternal links

• Official UNESCO website on Culture