12 Domains of Culture Flashcards

Study Notes

History and Myth

History reflects documented past events, while myths are narratives used to explain community origins and significant occurrences
Myths are not typically verified and serve cultural storytelling purposes

This domain encompasses community organization regarding leadership, power, and authority structures
Highlights the connections individuals share with others in their community, emphasizing social networks and relationships

Religion and Spirituality

Religion acts as a cultural framework providing individuals with meaning and purpose
Both religion and spirituality play crucial roles in maintaining social order and fostering unity within communities

Family and Kinship

Encompasses groups of individuals bonded through blood relations, marriage, or strong emotional connections
Family structures are fundamental to cultural identity and social dynamics

Sex and Gender

Sex pertains to biological distinctions between males and females
Gender is a cultural construct that encompasses societal norms regarding masculine and feminine behaviors

Language and Communication

Language is the system used for information exchange, crucial for community interaction
Communication includes both verbal and non-verbal practices essential for conveying meaning within cultures

Learning and Knowledge

Knowledge acquisition occurs through formal education systems, like schools
Informal learning takes place through observation of adults and peers, highlighting experiential knowledge

Time and Space

This domain influences cultural behaviors in public settings and spatial organization
Shapes how communities navigate their environments and position their housing and other elements

Aesthetics and Recreation

Aesthetics relate to creative expressions defined by imagination, beauty, skill, and stylistic elements
Recreational activities reflect cultural values and communal practices of creativity

Sustenance and Health

Focuses on how cultures approach food acquisition and dietary practices
Includes beliefs related to health, disease theories, and healing practices within different cultures

Economics and Resources

Cultures establish norms and methods for producing, distributing, and consuming goods
Defines survival needs, emphasizing cultural perspectives on necessary versus unnecessary goods

Technology and Material

Technology serves as a means for societies to alter their physical environment
Material culture is shaped significantly by technological developments and influences societal progress

Description

Explore the key concepts within the 12 domains of culture through these informative flashcards. Each card provides definitions and distinctions between domains such as history, political relations, and religion. Perfect for students seeking to grasp cultural studies.