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Lecture Notes on Culture

By on January 17, 2014

Our culture is a major part of our socialization. Our specific culture, whether it be the American culture or ethnic culture teaches us norms, values, and beliefs. The most prominent aspect of our culture is language. For, without language, we would not have culture as we would not be able to transmit our culture to the next generation. In terms of language, I am referring to some type of communication tool. (Image courtesy of Ambro/FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

The main institutions our culture is transmitted through are: education, religion, and family. Our family is our first and primary transmitter of our culture. Religion is the next culture transmitter and is the basis of our specific values and beliefs. But then we have education as another transmitting tool. How do you think education acts as a transmitter of culture? Focus on the transmission of the American culture. What are some of the “Values In U.S. Society” (p. 49)? How does the educational system transmit those values?

Culture Shock
What is culture shock? Have you ever experienced culture shock?

Ethnocentrism
What is ethnocentrism? What is a positive aspect of ethnocentrism? Think of some examples of when you were ethnocentric.

Is This Ethnocentrism?
Before exchange students actually go to the country they are going to study in they are briefed on what to expect in that country. Basically, the idea is to avoid as much culture shock as possible and inform them on how to get along in the specific country. The following is quoted directly from a pamphlet given to German exchanged students coming to the United States to study in 2000.
• Americans say “Hello” or “How are you?” when they see each other. A long answer is not expected; just answer “Thank you, fine. How are you?”
• Using deodorant is a must.
• American women usually shave their legs and under their arms. Women who don’t like to do this should consider wearing clothes that cover these areas.
• Try not to talk with other Germans in German if Americans are around; this could make them feel uncomfortable.
• Please consider the differences in verbal communication styles between Americans and Germans. The typical German speaking style sounds abrupt and rude to Americans. Keep this in mind when talking to Americans.
• Be polite. Use words like “please” and “thank you.” It is better to use these too often than not enough. Also, be conscious of your voice and the expression on your face. Your voice should be friendly, and you should wear a smile.
• Keep yourself out of any discussions about race, sex, religion, or politics.
• Be open-minded; don’t make judgments based on past experiences in Germany.
• Be aware that there are a lot of different cultures in the United States. Don’t be quick to judge these cultures; this could hurt people’s feelings.
• Do it the American way and try to intermingle with the Americans. Think positive.
Parrillo, Vincent N. (2000). Strangers to These Shores: Race and Ethnic Relations in the United States. Needham Heights, MA: Allyn & Bacon Publishing.

Now is this ethnocentrism? Why? What do you think about some of the bullet points? Is it the wording what causes us to conclude that this is ethnocentric?

How do we become ethnocentric? What happens in our socialization that causes ethnocentric attitudes? Do you recall anything in your socialization that specifically relates to some ethnocentric attitudes you have?

CULTURE – More thoughts. 

What is culture?
What are the specific components of culture?
What is the difference between material and non-material culture? Think about specific examples of each.
How does culture affect our lives?
What do we mean by cultural universals?
What is a subculture?
What is a counterculture?
What is cultural lag?
What is cultural diffusion?
What is cultural leveling?

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Teaching Sociology is very enjoyable for me. Sociology is like a gateway to a plethora of knowledge and understanding. The subject material is directly applicable to real-world events and situations found in everyday life. The methods and concepts of sociology yield powerful insights into the social processes shaping the contemporary world. The ability to identify and understand these processes is valuable preparation for professional participation in an ever changing and complex society.