AP Human Geography

Culture

A set of beliefs, values, and practices that form a group’s identity.

Language

The most important component of culture; influences how we see the world.

Religion

Shapes culture, values, and social structures.

Customs and Traditions

Practical and ceremonial elements that reinforce group identity.

Food

Reflects cultural heritage and local resources.

Language Families

Groups of languages with a shared historical origin.

Indo-European

The most widely spoken language family.

Sino-Tibetan

Encompasses languages like Mandarin.

Dialect

Variations within a language; can indicate geographical or social differences.

Universalizing Religions

Attempt to gain followers globally (e.g., Christianity, Islam).

Ethnic Religions

Primarily appeal to one group (e.g., Hinduism, Judaism).

Religious Landscape

The spatial distribution of religions that can influence culture and politics.

Ethnic Cleansing

The forced removal of an ethnic group from a territory.

Multiculturalism

The coexistence of multiple cultural groups.

Relocation Diffusion

Spread of culture through physical movement.

Expansion Diffusion

Increase in numbers that spreads through a culture (e.g., Contagious, Hierarchical).

Globalization

Can lead to homogenization; local cultures adapt or resist.

Cultural Landscapes

Reflections of cultural practices in the environment, from architecture to land use.

Popular Culture

Fast-changing, globalized; often commercial.

Folk Culture

Traditional, local; emphasizes community.