Definitions of Culture

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Questions and Answers

What does Kroeber and Kluckhohn define as the essential core of culture?

Transmitted behaviors and customs unique to each society

Social institutions that solve universal problems

Historically derived ideas and their associated values (correct)

Patterns of behavior that are only material in nature

Which statement best describes ethnocentrism?

The tendency to view one's own culture as superior to others (correct)

The practice of socialization from infancy to adulthood

The universal solution to social problems across cultures

The diffusion of cultural traits across different societies

What is meant by cultural diffusion?

The exclusive development of local customs and traditions

A rejection of foreign cultural influences

The homogenization of global cultural practices

The adoption of traits from one culture into another (correct)

Which characteristic of culture indicates that it evolves over time?

Culture is cumulative. Signup and view all the answers

How do social institutions influence culture?

They create a set of norms to address universal problems. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does culture serve societies according to the content?

By providing acceptable patterns for meeting societal needs. Signup and view all the answers

What is one consequence of ethnocentrism as mentioned in the content?

Increased instances of racism and tribalism. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a feature of culture according to the content?

It consists only of material artifacts. Signup and view all the answers

What term is used to describe elements found in all human societies?

Cultural uniformities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is highlighted as a form of social control in regulating behaviors?

Social regulations Signup and view all the answers

According to Edward B. Tylor, how is culture defined in 'Primitive Culture'?

As a complex whole including knowledge, beliefs, and customs Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of the practice of wife hospitality among the Eskimos and Tivs?

It varies significantly from other cultural practices Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes language in relation to culture?

A universal phenomenon observed in all human societies Signup and view all the answers

What concept is conveyed by saying culture is socially, rather than genetically, transmitted?

Cultural traits are learned from interactions rather than biological lineage Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a social institution universally present in human societies?

Art Signup and view all the answers

What aspect differentiates cultural elements from genetic traits according to the definitions provided?

Cultural elements are acquired through societal membership Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definitions of Culture

Culture is characterized as a trait or characteristics found in all human societies, referred to as 'cultural universals'.
Experts debate the existence of cultural universals, yet all human societies demonstrate specific cultural designs and potentials.
The concept of royalty exists in different regions, such as ancient Egypt and modern monarchies in Europe and Saudi Arabia.
All societies have regulations governing sexual behaviors to ensure social control.
Diverse greeting customs exist among cultures, reflecting their unique traditions.
Language is an essential universal phenomenon; no human society exists without language.
Social institutions including family, government, religion, economy, education, and politics are integral to culture.

Theoretical Definitions of Culture

Edward B. Tylor's classical definition describes culture as a "complex whole" including knowledge, beliefs, art, morals, law, customs, and habits acquired in society.
Culture is understood as "the totality of learned behavior transmitted from one generation to the next" (Reading, 1978).
Broadly, culture refers to socially, not genetically, transmitted human actions and products (Mitchell, 1979).
Kroeber and Kluckhohn view culture as patterns for behavior acquired via symbols, essential to human group achievements and historically derived ideas.

Culture and Human Existence

Culture is central to human existence, encompassing the total way of life, including communication and social interactions.
Social institutions are defined as interrelated norms and behavior patterns addressing human activity or societal issues.
Only certain problems are universal, while solutions vary greatly across cultures, influencing how institutions are arranged.

Ethnocentrism

Ethnocentrism reflects the evaluation of other cultures as less developed or primitive compared to one's own culture.
This phenomenon can lead to racism and tribalism, exacerbating communal clashes and ethnic conflicts.

Cultural Diffusion

Cultural diffusion involves the importation of traits and characteristics from one society to another, facilitating behavioral similarities.
Examples in Africa include the adoption of music genres like reggae and rap, as well as technology like digital devices and media formats.

Socialization and Culture

Culture is learned through socialization, which is the process by which society's ways are taught from infancy to adulthood.

Characteristics of Culture

Culture is passed from generation to generation through language.
It provides patterns for meeting societal needs that are socially acceptable.
Culture is cumulative, meaning it builds upon previous knowledge.
It holds symbolic significance, making it meaningful to members of society.

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Description

Explore the essence of culture through this quiz, which focuses on the concepts of cultural traits and universals. Understand how these elements manifest in various human societies and the ongoing debates about their existence. Test your knowledge on the characteristics that define culture across different contexts.