Chapter 3 Flashcards
what is culture?
is a system of behaviours, beliefs, knowledge, practices, values,
concrete materials including buildings, tools, and sacred items.
Dominant Culture
is the culture that, through its political and economic power is able to add its values, language, and ways of behaving in a society
-can influence change on all other cultures.
Minority cultures
fall outside the cultural norms
– there are 2 subcategories that fall under minority cultures: countercultures and subcultures
countercultures?
Countercultures are little cultures that feel the power of the big culture and exist against it. are completely against social norms.
-ex. hippies, biker gangs
subcultures?
Subcultures are little cultures that differ from the big culture but arent completely against it.
ex. Hutterites, Amish, Furries.
High Culture?
is the culture of the elites. It is often associated with the arts (Opera or Ballet). high culture requires cultural capital and social capital.
popular culture?
The culture of the majority, especially those who do not have much social power (Status). The average person.
Mass culture?
big companies dictate what people watch, buy, value or believe. created by those in power for the masses.
what is Simulacra?
stereotypes, or hyperreal images. something that appears better then reality. marketing tool.
ex. Barbie Dolls being the standard for women, or indigenous being represented through kayaks and igloos.
Cultural Norms?
are the rules or standards of behaviour that are expected of a group, society, or culture.
ex. white wedding dress, wearing black to funeral. they change over time and form culture to culture.
Sanctions?
are rewards and punishments in response to a particular behaviour.
what are Positive Sanctions?
are rewards for “doing the right thing
or a good thing” (e.g., smiles, high five or bonus)
Negative Sanctions?
are reactions designed to tell offenders they have violated a norm (e.g., a glare, an eye roll, parking ticket, a library fine)
Folkways?
day to day Norms. things you just shouldn’t do, but have no actual punishment.
ex. no double dipping, no hats at dinner table, chew with mouth closed.
Mores?
are more serious than folkways. These more formalized norms we must not violate, and violations are met with some what serious punishments. (stealing, lying, bullying)
