Culture, norms and values

culture

the way of life of a society or social group that generally involves shared norms and values

values

beliefs and goals that society holds as important and desirable. They act as a guideline for behaviour

norms

the cultural expectations or social rules that society attaches to particular types of behaviourIdentity

They often reflect the values of society

Identity

how people see themselves and perceive their differences to others. We construct our identity through the values we adopt.

Social roles

set of norms and values expected of members of society, often based on their occupation or position

Status

the prestige or social standing attached to a particular role because of the value of the role attached by society. For example, doctors have a high status because they are experts and save lives.

what are the types of status

• achieved

• ascribed

achieved status

Roles/status achieved through qualifications,

hard work and talent.

ascribed status

Role/status fixed at birth by descent or inheritance. The queen is a good example

what are the types of culture

• subcultures

• high culture

• popular culture

• consumer culture

subcultures

minority social groups who generally subscribe to the values and norms of mainstream culture, but have values and practices that are unique to them. They could be based on ethnic background, political interests or social class.

high culture

pastimes or practices that are seen as intellectually and anaesthetically superior. e.g. classical music or poetry.

popular culture

(mass culture) refers to cultural products and practices which don’t aspire to intellectual superiority and are enjoyed by the majority of people. For example, pop music.

consumer culture

when material goods and products are valued highly and used to define oneself. This has emerged as a result of globalisation (societies across the world being interconnected by technological and cultural integration.