Understanding Culture: An Exploration of Beliefs, Norms, and Symbols

2. Culture consists of the beliefs, behaviors, objects, and other characteristics common to the members of a group or society. Through culture, people and groups define themselves, conform to society 's shared values, and contribute to society. Thus, culture includes many elements of language, customs, values, norms, mores, rules, tools, technologies, products, organizations, and institutions. As elements, values and beliefs determine what is true and just in the society. Example, the American dream is to have a family, be wealthy and work hard. Then come the written rules called the norms. These define how to behave in accordance with the society. Example: The road stops signs, swimming pool “no running” signs and the no smoking area boards which are to be followed. Symbols and language are another indication that help people understand the world. Example: Sports uniforms,

(Openstax Book, Page 58) Culture has multiple definitions as people around the world follow different norms and moral rules that might be contrasting for others. Example: In Islamic traditions, women must cover their bodies in public wearing a garment called burqa but on the other hand, American women can wear whatsoever they wish to.
As culture is interpreted differently by individuals, this has led to conflicts in the American society.
• Per the functionalists, society is a system in which all parts function to create society. That is why culture needs to exist. They believe culture guides people in making choices, fulfilling needs and meet the basic members’ needs. Example, education is most valued and the culture of education includes textbooks, classrooms, libraries that help to educate a society’s