Culture is the system of beliefs, values, attitudes, behaviors and symbolic expressions that form a collective whole that is passed down from generation to generation. It is a defining characteristic of the human species. Every group of relating humans has a culture, from dyads and families to classrooms, school districts, universities, professional associations, businesses, countries and supranational entities. These cultures define the rules by which members interact to organize and direct their lives in relation to environmental constraints and opportunities.
During the Renaissance, cultural events provided platforms for artistic and intellectual invention. Festivals and fairs were used to introduce the public to new ideas, works of art, and scientific discoveries. These events also gave people the opportunity to socialize with other members of their communities and share their own unique creative contributions. Today, there are many different ways to experience cultural activities. Some examples include visiting art galleries and museums, attending music concerts and sporting events, taking part in food festivals, and attending lectures on various topics.
While all humans have some level of culture, the differences among people are far more prominent than the similarities. An analysis of language structures or conversational etiquette reveals tremendous variations in the way that cultures around the world communicate and interact. Likewise, the types of foods and beverages that are consumed vary widely from country to country. While Europeans love their Earl Grey tea, East Asians prefer Yak Butter tea. Even simple daily routines like commuting to work can reveal an amazing amount of cultural diversity.
The direction of biologic evolution toward greater freedom and security of life is reflected in the development of culture. In the early stages of biological evolution, organisms behave instinctively and automatically, with no conscious control over their behavior. As the biological organism becomes more complex, it learns to act and communicate in ways that allow it to survive and thrive in its environment.
Every sociocultural system, however, exists within a natural habitat that has its own influence upon the cultural systems that operate in it. For example, the cultures of some Eskimo groups have developed adaptations to environmental conditions such as tailored fur clothing, snow goggles and harpoons for hunting sea mammals, and hewn log houses known as igloos.
In addition to influencing global dynamics, cultural systems influence individual people in profound and personal ways. A person’s culture defines their sense of self and the relationships they have with other people. In today’s increasingly interconnected world, it is more important than ever to understand the role that culture plays in developing strong, thriving, diverse communities. This is why it’s so essential for community builders to know how to embrace culture in a meaningful way. The article above provides a rich and varied view of how to do just that.