Elements of Culture: Definitions, Aspects & Components

Culture is a massive field of study for sociologists, existing universally wherever humans are found.
A fundamental principle of sociology is that no two cultures are exactly the same; each society possesses a unique combination of elements that constitute their specific way of life.
Culture is comprised of several key elements that evolve over time as a society progresses: symbols, language, values, and norms.
These elements are not static; they manifest differently across various cultures and undergo changes as a society evolves.

Definition: A symbol is defined as anything used to stand for something else.
Cultural Significance: People within a shared culture attach specific, collective meanings to various objects, gestures, sounds, or images.
The Cross: To a Christian, a cross is not merely two pieces of wood joined together, nor is it viewed simply as an ancient instrument of execution and torture. Instead, it serves as a symbol representing the entire foundation of their religion and is treated with immense reverence.
American Cultural Symbols:
- Emoticons: These are combinations of keyboard characters utilized to represent specific feelings or emotions during online communication or texting.
- The American Flag: This serves as a symbol representing the entire country.
- The Bald Eagle: Another significant symbol representing the United States.
International Symbols:
- China: The dragon and the giant panda are key symbols representing the nation.
- Egyptian Culture: The scarab beetle is used as a symbol for the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth.

Definition: Language is a system comprised of words and symbols used to facilitate communication with other people.
Universal Presence: Language is the second element present in every culture across the globe.
Components of Language:
- Full languages (e.g., English, Spanish, French).
- Body language.
- Slang.
- Common phrases unique to specific groups.
Regional Variations in Language: Even when the same language is spoken (e.g., English in America and Britain), vocabulary and meanings can differ significantly.
- Example: What Americans refer to as "French fries," the British call "chips."
- Example: What Americans refer to as "cookies," the British call "biscuits."
Cultural Differences in Non-Verbal Language:
- Eye Contact in America: Generally suggests that a person is paying attention and is genuinely interested in the conversation.
- Eye Contact in Other Cultures: Can be perceived as a sign of rudeness or a direct challenge to authority.

Definition: Values are culturally defined standards that determine what is considered good, desirable, or appropriate within a society.
Shared Decision Making: Members of a culture utilize their shared system of values to make moral and social judgments about what is good or bad.
Individualistic vs. Collectivistic Values:
- American Individualism: American culture emphasizes individualistic values, encouraging competition and personal achievement. Success is viewed through the lens of individual talent and hard work. For example, a person accepting a job promotion is typically praised for their personal efforts.
- Collectivistic Cultures: In these societies, collaboration is prioritized over individual achievement. A person's success is measured by their contributions to the group. In such a culture, an individual offered a promotion might consult with their family first to ensure the move benefits the group as a whole rather than just themselves.

Definition: Norms are culturally defined expectations of behavior that serve as guidelines for how to act in specific situations.
Social Function: Norms determine what is appropriate versus what is considered inappropriate behavior. Many norms are followed subconsciously.
Example of a Norm: In many cultures, the act of standing in line to use a restroom is a standard expectation. When someone violates this by cutting in line, others typically feel irritation or anger because a cultural norm has been broken.
Variance in Norms: Norms vary based on their perceived importance and the severity of the reaction to their violation.
Formal vs. Informal Rules:
- Formal Rules: Some norms are codified into official laws.
- Informal Rules: Many norms are unwritten rules of etiquette for daily behavior.

Folkways:
- Definition: Norms that dictate appropriate behavior for casual or routine social interactions.
- Characteristics: These are casual rules for behavior. While those who violate folkways might be viewed as rude, eccentric, or "weird," they are not typically subjected to legal punishment or imprisonment.
- Examples: Holding a door open for another person as a sign of courtesy; the social expectation not to pick one's nose in public.
Mores:
- Definition: Norms that dictate behavior based on moral right and wrong.
- Characteristics: These rules are considered so essential to the functioning of society that they often go without saying and do not need to be written down.
- Mild Example: Using loud profanity during a funeral service is a violation of a more.
- Serious Violations (Taboos): Violations of the most serious mores are considered taboos. Individuals who break these are often viewed as unfit for society.
- Example of Taboo (Cannibalism): While there may be no specific formal laws against cannibalism in the United States, it violates a fundamental norm so profoundly that practitioners face severe punishment and total social ostracization.