Understanding Culture, Society, and Politics PDF

**UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS (NOTES)** FIRST SEM MOST ESSENTIAL TOPIC 1: STARTING POINTS FOR THE UNDERSTANDING OF CULTURE, SOCIETY, AND POLITICS **LESSON 2**: Observations about social, political, and cultural behavior and phenomena (examples: food taboos, *istambay*, political d...

**UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS (NOTES)** FIRST SEM MOST ESSENTIAL TOPIC 1: STARTING POINTS FOR THE UNDERSTANDING OF CULTURE, SOCIETY, AND POLITICS **LESSON 2**: Observations about social, political, and cultural behavior and phenomena (examples: food taboos, *istambay*, political dynasties, elections) LEARNING OBJECTIVES: At the end of the session, learners are expected to: 1\. Define and explain the concepts of social, political, and cultural phenomena. 2\. Identify examples of social, political, and cultural behaviors and phenomena in the Philippines and other countries. 3.  **Analyze** the underlying reasons for these behaviors and phenomena.  **Evaluate** the impact of these behaviors and phenomena on individuals, communities, and societies.  **Compare and contrast** social, political, and cultural behaviors and phenomena across different cultures.  **Develop** critical thinking skills to analyze and interpret social, political, and cultural observations.  **Apply** their knowledge to understand and engage in current social, political, and cultural issues. KEY CONCEPT: Every society has its own norms to follow. These norms serve as guides or models of behavior which tell us what is proper or improper, appropriate or inappropriate, right or wrong. They set limits within which individuals may seek alternative ways to achieve their goals. CULTURE - It is a way of life of a group of people-the behaviors, beliefs, values, and symbols that they accept, generally without thinking about them, and that are passed along by communication and imitation from one generation to the next generation. - It includes: knowledge, belief, art, law, morals, custom, and other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of society. SOCIETY - The people who interact in such a way as to share a common culture - the term "society" can also a geographic meaning refer to a people who share a common culture in a particular location. KEY CONCEPT Culture and Society are intricately related. A culture consists of the "objects" of a society, whereas a society consist of "people" who share a common culture. When the term culture and society first acquired their current meanings, most people in the world worked and lived in small group in the same locale. ELEMENTS OF CULTURE a\. Material Non-material MATERIAL CULTURE Culture is easily divided into material or non-material concepts. Material culture includes: - Weapons - Machines - Jewelry - Art - Hair styles - Clothing - Language - Gestures - Values - Beliefs - Rules (norms) - Philosophies - Customs - Governments - Institutions - Perception of reality - Are the convictions that people hold to be true individuals in a society have specific beliefs, but also shared collective values. VALUES - Shared ideas, right or wrong - Are a culture's standard foe discerning what is good and just in society. Values are deeply embedded and critical for transmitting and teaching a culture's beliefs. - are rules that govern our lives and values are the goal of our lives. It is the expectations, or rules of behavior that develop out of values. They are guidelines for our behavior. - Norms may be informal or they may be formalized into laws. - Are often on the for of rules, standards, or prescription that are strictly followed by people who adhere on certain conventions and perform specific roles. Often norms indicate society's standards of property, morality, ethics and legality. - Example: **Pagmamano** is a Filipino tradition where a younger person touches the hand of an older person to show respect and seek blessings. It is a gesture of reverence and filial piety. - Are norms that ordinary people follow in everyday life. - Conformity is respected, but not absolutely insisted on - Folkways are not strictly enforced. Here are some examples of mores: - **Honesty:** Lying, cheating, and stealing are generally considered to be violations of the more of honesty. - **Respect for authority:** Disrespecting parents, teachers, or other authority figures is often considered a violation of the more of respect. - **Loyalty:** Betraying friends, family, or one\'s country is a violation of the more of loyalty. - **Respect for human life:** Taking another person\'s life, except in self-defense or in accordance with the law, is a serious violation of the more of respect for human life. Mores are often considered to be essential for the functioning of a society, as they help to maintain order and stability. Violations of mores can lead to social ostracism, legal punishment, or even violence. TABOOS **Taboos** are cultural or social prohibitions that are considered sacred or forbidden. They often involve actions or objects that are believed to be dangerous, impure, or offensive to a deity or supernatural force. Violating a taboo can led to social ostracism, punishment, or even physical harm. Here are some examples of taboos: - **Food taboos:** Many cultures have taboos related to certain foods, such as pork, beef, or shellfish. These taboos may be based on religious beliefs, cultural practices, or health concerns. - **Incest taboos:** Most cultures have taboos against sexual relationships between close relatives. These taboos are often based on genetic and social considerations. - **Religious taboos:** Many religions have taboos related to certain actions or objects. For example, in Islam, it is taboo to consume pork or alcohol. - **Social taboos:** There are many social taboos that vary across different cultures. Some examples include talking about certain topics (e.g., death, sex), touching people in certain ways, or using certain words. Taboos can be a powerful force in shaping social behavior and maintaining cultural identity. While they may seem strange or arbitrary to outsiders, they are often deeply rooted in the beliefs and values of a particular culture. LAW **Law** refers to a system of rules and regulations that govern behavior within a society. It is designed to maintain order, protect rights, and resolve disputes. Laws can be written or unwritten, and they can vary significantly across different cultures and legal systems. **Examples of laws include:** - **Criminal laws:** These laws prohibit harmful or illegal acts, such as murder, theft, and assault. - **Civil laws:** These laws govern disputes between individuals or organizations, such as contracts, property rights, and torts. - **Constitutional laws:** These laws establish the basic structure and principles of a government. - **Administrative laws:** These laws govern the actions of government agencies and their employees. - **International laws:** These laws govern the relationships between countries, such as treaties, customs, and international organizations. Laws are typically enforced by law enforcement agencies, courts, and other legal institutions. They are designed to promote justice, fairness, and equality within a society. CHARACTERISTICS OF CULTURE Anthropology defines culture as a complex system of learned, symbolic, integrated, shared, and encompassing behaviors, ideas, and artifacts. This definition, proposed by E.B. Tylor in 1871, captures the essential elements of culture. **1. Learned:** Culture is not innate; it is acquired through learning and socialization. Individuals learn cultural behaviors, beliefs, and values from their families, peers, and communities. This process of learning culture is ongoing and can vary across different societies. **2. Symbolic:** Culture is based on symbols, which are arbitrary representations of ideas or things. Symbols can be verbal (e.g., words, language), nonverbal (e.g., gestures, art), or material (e.g., objects, artifacts). Through symbols, people communicate meaning, express their identity, and create a shared sense of belonging. **3. Integrated:** Culture is a complex system of interconnected elements. Different aspects of culture, such as language, religion, art, and social structures, are interrelated and influence each other. For example, religious beliefs can shape social customs and artistic expressions. **4. Shared:** Culture is not something that exists in isolation; it is shared by members of a society. Shared cultural beliefs, values, and behaviors create a sense of community and belonging. However, it\'s important to note that within any society, there can be variations in cultural practices and beliefs. **5. Encompassing:** Culture encompasses all aspects of human life, from material objects to abstract ideas. It includes everything from the food we eat to the way we perceive the world. Culture shapes our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and it influences every aspect of our lives. In conclusion, culture is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is essential to human existence. By understanding these key characteristics, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity and richness of human cultures.  **Morals** refer to the principles or standards of behavior that are considered right or wrong. They are often based on ethical principles, religious beliefs, or societal values. Morals guide our decisions and actions, and they can vary across different cultures and individuals. Examples of moral principles include honesty, kindness, fairness, and respect.  **Customs** are traditional or habitual practices that are followed within a particular society or culture. They can be related to social behavior, rituals, or traditions. Customs often reflect the values and beliefs of a group of people. Examples of customs include greeting rituals, holiday celebrations, and food preferences. **Reverence** means deep respect and admiration, often bordering on awe. In the context of pagmamano, it implies a sense of respect and honor for the older person. **Filial piety** is a virtue that emphasizes respect for one\'s parents and ancestors. It is a cultural value that is highly prized in many Asian societies, **Folkways** are informal rules or customs that are widely accepted within a society but are not considered morally significant. They are often unwritten and learned through observation and imitation. While they are not strictly enforced, violating folkways can lead to social disapproval or embarrassment. Some examples of folkways include: - **Greeting customs:** Shaking hands, bowing, or kissing on the cheek are examples of greeting folkways. - **Table manners:** Eating with utensils, not talking with your mouth full, and chewing with your mouth closed are common table manners. - **Dress codes:** Wearing appropriate clothing for different occasions is a folkway. - **Social etiquette:** Saying \"please\" and \"thank you,\" avoiding interrupting others, and maintaining eye contact during conversations are examples of social etiquette. Folkways can vary significantly across different cultures and societies. What is considered acceptable behavior in one place may be considered rude or inappropriate in another.