Lecture Notes: Labeling Theory, Nationality/Ethnicity/Language, and Culture

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering key concepts from labeling theory, nationality/ethnicity/language, and cultural topics.

Labeling Theory

The idea that labeling individuals or groups can influence their behavior and self-perception, potentially shaping future actions.

Nationality

Identity tied to being part of a nation or country; acquired by birth or naturalization; linked to shared history, traditions, language, and a defined territory.

Ethnicity

A sense of group identity based on shared experiences, culture, language, and heritage; used broadly to signify a group united by common bonds.

Language

A system of symbols used for communication; the basis of culture that shapes understanding and the ability to share past and future meanings.

Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis

The idea that language structures thought; people may not easily understand concepts unless their language includes words for them.

Race

A categorization of humans based on shared physical or social attributes.

Culture

A system consisting of objects, symbols, norms, values, and beliefs that pervade social life and shape behavior; can be observed in material and non-material forms.

Material Culture

The tangible, physical objects that represent a culture (e.g., buildings, tools, clothes, art) and contrast with non-material culture.

Non-Material Culture

The intangible aspects of culture (beliefs, values, norms, language, customs) that influence behavior.

Symbol

An object or gesture that carries a specific meaning within a culture; can be verbal or nonverbal (e.g., shaking hands as a greeting).

Attitudes

Mental orientations or evaluations toward people, objects, or ideas within a culture.

Values

Standards of desirability that determine what is considered good or bad within a culture.

Beliefs

Mental acceptances or convictions about propositions, often without complete evidence.

Norms

Standards and expectations for behavior; include formal rules (laws) and informal rules (folkways).

Mores

The most important norms, typically enforced by formal sanctions and having strong moral significance.

Folkways

Informal norms shaping daily interactions and cultural identity; less strictly enforced than mores.

High Culture

Cultural practices regarded as sophisticated and refined, often associated with elite traditions.

Pop Culture

Mass or popular culture that appeals to broad audiences and is widely shared.

Ethnocentrism

Judging other cultures by the standards and values of one’s own culture, often believing one’s own is superior.

Cultural Relativism

Understanding a culture on its own terms without judging it by another culture’s standards.

Nationalism

A sense of loyalty or identity with one’s nation, sometimes elevating national culture above others.