Understanding Culture, Society, and Politics PDF

Understanding Culture, Society and Politics Human cultural variation, social differences and political identities  Culture refers to that complex whole that includes knowledge, beliefs, arts, morals, laws, customs, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member...

Understanding Culture, Society and Politics Human cultural variation, social differences and political identities  Culture refers to that complex whole that includes knowledge, beliefs, arts, morals, laws, customs, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of a society. (Edward H. Taylor)  Material Culture Two types of Culture Non-material Culture Ma t e r i a l C u l t u r e os e d o f ta n g ib le comp lik e fo o d , to ol s, things a c ce ss o rie s a n d dress, others.  n - m a t e r i a l C u l t u r e N o o se d o f in ta ng ib le comp s uc h a s h a b its , id e as, thing s io n , la n g u a g e a nd relig b e h a v io r Cultural Variation refers to the differences in social behaviors that cultures exhibit around the world. In the Philippines, differences in social behaviors are influence with cultures in specific places and tribes. Social Differences refers to the situation where people are discriminated based on economic status, social characteristics and qualities. These may include race, ethnicity, gender, and professions. In spite of these differences people continue to do their responsibilities as members of society. Social Differences 1. Gender 2. Socio-economic Class 3. Ethnicity 4. Race  1. GENDER -refers to the biological characteristics that distinguish a male from a female Gender Roles -refer to attitudes and behaviors that society expect a person based on his/her sex 2. Socio-economic class the high-income, the middle-income and the low income class 3. Ethnicity which refers to the ethnic group who have a common culture, language, and history 4. Race which refers to the group of people who share inherited physical characteristics such as skin color, facial features, and body structure. SOCIAL CHANGE -refers to any significant alteration in behavior patterns, cultural values, and norms over time. This change is brought about by modernization and globalization's impact that resulted in cultural change among Filipinos. POLITICAL IDENTITIES -refers to political positions based on the interests and perspectives of social groups with which people identify. In the Philippines, we chose the political leaders through election and being a democratic country. They are mandated by law to lead the people and implement good governance for the common good of all Filipinos. The significance of studying culture, society, and politics  Culture 1. Makes it possible for a man to adapt and integrate himself into his environment · 2. Establish patterns of acceptable social behavior such as good manners and right conduct · 3. It conveys and facilitates meaning · It produces man-made things such as clothing, tools, and others 4. It contributes to overall human satisfaction like arts, recreational activities, etc.  Society 1. It is an avenue for economic interdependence 2. Characterize the totality of a territory. It serves as a representation of our identity 3. A symbol of political independence perception about Politics 4. It is an art of government, public affair, Power and distribution of resources 5. It is academics consensus and compromise society  THE RATIONALE FOR STUDYING ANTHROPOLOGY, POLITICAL SCIENCE, AND SOCIOLOGY Societies continue to improve and social, political, and cultural changes occur; Social change –abolition of slavery, industrial revolution. Political change – democracy, federalism, political dynasty. Cultural change – texting, food taboos, immigration.  Anthropology Anthropology – is a branch of knowledge that deals with the scientific study of man, his works, his body, his behavior, and values in time and space (Palispis, 2007).  Political Science Political Science – is a systematic study of a state and its government, with the relationships of men in the community, with relations to groups, to the state itself and to other sovereign counties.  Sociology is the scientific study of patterned, shared human behavior, it analyzes human interaction which is essential in understanding man’s cultural makeup.  Goals of Athropology - describe and analyze the biological evolution of mankind- describe and assess the cultural development of our species - describe, explain, and analyze the present-day human cultural similarities and differences – describe and explain human biological and diversity today. Goals of Political Science be immersed in current affairs - build an understanding on local, national, and international politics - learn how political activities are organized in and out of our country - provide substantially critical and scientific contributions to government and society.  Goals of Sociology understand ourselves better - build a better understanding of mankind - help with decision- making - provide insights into what is going on in a situation