Section Overview
This section delves into the intricacies of culture, examining how deeply embedded values and beliefs shape societal norms and actions. It sheds light on the duality of ‘ideal’ and ‘real’ culture, as well as the societal mechanisms that enforce these cultural values. The role of norms, both formal and informal, in directing behavior is explored, highlighting the difference between folkways and mores, and their impact on everyday life. Lastly, it elucidates the importance of symbols, both functional and symbolic, and their role in constructing a shared understanding among members of a society. The significance of language and nonverbal communication as symbolic systems and their influence on thought processes and communication are underscored.
Reading Assignment for Section 2.2
Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 2.2: Elements of Culture.
What You Will Learn
In this section, you’ll discover the difference between ‘ideal’ and ‘real’ culture and how societal values and beliefs shape culture. You’ll learn about the ways societies use rewards, sanctions, and punishments to maintain cultural values. Additionally, you’ll explore the role of formal and informal norms, such as folkways and mores, in guiding behavior and the impacts of violating these norms.
Student Learning Outcomes for Section 2.2
- SLO 1: Students will be able to differentiate between ‘ideal’ and ‘real’ culture and the implications of societal values and beliefs in shaping culture.
- SLO 2: Students will understand how societies use rewards, sanctions, and punishments to encourage adherence to cultural values.
- SLO 3: Students will comprehend the role of formal and informal norms (folkways and mores) in shaping behavior and the consequences of violating these norms.
- SLO 4: Students will grasp the importance of symbols in society and how they contribute to a shared understanding among community members.
- SLO 5: Students will develop an understanding of the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis and the significance of language and nonverbal communication in shaping thought and conveying meaning.
Modification History File Created: 05/07/2023 Last Modified: 06/06/2024
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