Name the four features of cultures. Provide an original example for each element.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Created: Ethnocentrism would have us believe that ours is the only way to solve
problems. In fact, there are countless ways to deal with the environment, manage
interpersonal relationships, produce food, and cope with death. Each cultural group devises
its own way of responding to circumstances.
Learned: Elements of culture are passed on from generation to generation and from person
to person. Cultural conditioning is both a formal and an informal process that takes place in
every context—homes, schools, playgrounds, camps, and games. The most crucial aspects
of a culture, such as loyalty to country, are constantly reinforced. Patriotism in the United
States is promoted through high school civics classes, the singing of the national anthem at
sporting events, flags flying on everything from pickup trucks to skyscrapers and giant
construction cranes, and fourth of July and Memorial Day programs.
Shared: The shared nature of culture becomes apparent when we break the rules that are
set and enforced by the group. There are negative consequences for violating cultural
norms of all types. Punishments vary depending on the severity of the offense. For example,
you might receive a cold stare from your professor when your cell phone goes off in class.
However, you may face jail time if you break drug laws.
Dynamic: Cultures aren’t static but evolve. Over time, the changes can be dramatic.
Compare the cultural values of the Leave It to Beaver television show with those found in
modern situation comedies. The world of the Cleavers (a suburban, heterosexual, two-
parent family with a well-dressed, stay-at-home mom) has been replaced by portrayals of
unmarried friends, single parents, blended families, and gay partners and spouses.