Important Definitions (Culture, Socialization and Identity) Flashcards
Define the concept of a Norm
A common form of behaviors which most people in a society follow. It’s not a written rule but it is something that your are expected to follow. Norms are regulated by sanctions and rewards and are relative. For example, in our society it is customary to not burp out loud but in some societies it is approved as it shows that one has fully appreciated their meal.
Define the concept of Values
It is a principle or belief which the majority of society agrees on. They inform behaviour and vary from individual to individual. Are relative to context, time and society. There are many different types of values including: moral values, religious values and social values.
Define Popular Culture
The culture of the masses e.g. going to the cinema
Define Bourgeoisie
The upper/ruling class.
Define Cultural Capital
How much someone can understand and access high culture.
Define Culture
The values, beliefs, customs and the way of life of a society or group within society.
Define Consumer Culture
Where buying things that are not necessarily needed is the norm. Which has been actively encouraged by capitalist societies as it makes people spend money. (Lury)
Define Global Culture
A culture shared by many people across the world, which has been formed due to the world becoming more interconnected. (Ritzer)
Define Cultural Homogenisation
Where people all over the world are becoming more similar due to globalization. (Ritzer)
What is ‘McDonaldisation’?
Where large companies (often American) are dominating globally and bringing their culture with them. (Ritzer)
What is Cultural Diversity?
Is where there are people from many different cultures and backgrounds living in a society.
Statistics to use in exams (from the 2001 census):
Population of England and Wales was 14.1% BAME
London had 40.2% of BAME population
What is Multiculturalism?
Is the political belief that ALL ethnic groups have the same status in society and have equal the right to preserve their own cultural heritage in the UK e.g. wearing of the veil.
What is a Subculture?
A culture within the mainstream culture, that has different values, lifestyle and dress to the main culture.
What is a ‘feral child’?
A child who has not received primary socialistaion.
What is an ‘agent of socialisation’?
The many people or institutions that socialize individuals.
What is a ‘formal social control’?
Is associated with the formal agents of socialisation such as education, religion and the workplace. They use formal mechanisms of social control such as codes of conduct in education, guidelines of behaviour in religion and the rules and regulations in the workplace in order to control people.
What is ‘informal social control’?
Associated with the less formal agents of socialisation such as the family, peers and the media. Control is exercised, but without written rules and guidelines. Instead rewards and sanctions are used to reinforce positive behaviour or discourage negative behaviour.
Define Secondary Socialisation
The learning of social norms, values and behaviours outside of the house. It begins when children start school and continues to happen with things such as sharing and asking to go to the toilet, that a big emphasis placed on them. It is perpetuated by other agents of socialisation outside the home and is reinforced throughout their life.
What is ‘stratification’?
The layering of different groups in society.
Define Nouvezriche
People who were not born with money but are now super rich.
Define Proletariat
People who are employed by the bourgeoisie. (Karl Marx)
What is ‘reflexive modernity’?
A phase we are now in AFTER modern society.
What is ‘compulsory heterosexuality’?
When women are socialised into a passive role, ensuring their availability to men.
What is ‘hybrid identity’?
A combination of two or more ethnic identities e.g. ‘Brasian’ - British/Asian.
