Chapter 2 - Characteristics of culture

Question 1

Define Adaption

Answer 1

A series of beneficial adjustments an organism takes gradually to fit into its environment

Question 2

Define Culture

Answer 2

A society’s shared/socially transmitted ideas. Used to navigate the world and evoke desired behaviors.

Question 3

Define Society

Answer 3

An organized group of interdependent individuals with shared territory, language, culture

Question 4

Define Pluralism

Answer 4

A complex society with two distinct cultures coexisting in a single political territory

Question 5

What are the 4 layers of the barrel? Bottom to Top.

Answer 5

Environment, Infrastructure, Social Structure, Superstructure

Question 6

Define Social Structure

Answer 6

Rule-based Structure that enables people to meet base needs within a society - including rights and obligations. Think family/politics

Question 7

Define Infrastructure

Answer 7

Economic foundation of a society. Includes subsistence practices, tools, and other objects used to make a living

Question 8

Define Superstructure

Answer 8

A society’s identity and worldview. Includes things such as religion, values, understanding of it’s place in the world.

Question 9

What are some important functions of culture?

Answer 9

• Offer a social structure for mutual support and reproduction
• Provide ways/means to pass on knowledge
• Facilitate social interaction/conflict resolution