Sociological Theories + Culture Flashcards
Define Culture
beliefs, behaviors, and actions of a group
Define: Material Culture
one of the two subsets of culture ; any physical object we give social meaning to
Define: Symbolic Culture
one of the two subsets of culture ; beliefs, ideas and customs in a culture: can include rituals, norms, languages, values and beliefs
The American flag is an example of material or symbolic culture?
material, because it’s a flag that we’ve given social meaning (patriotism) to
Is the Star Wars theme song an example of material or symbolic culture?
symbolic, because it represents values and beliefs
Define: Assimilation
the process where one culture merges with another and begins acting like the newer culture it joined
Define: Multiculturalism
communities and societies having multiple cultures coexisting
Is Elise enjoying deep fried potato skins an example of assimilation or multiculturalism?
assimilation because deep frying Friday’s frozen potato skins is very very American
Is your respecting Elise’s love for that kale and cold sausage dish assimilation or multiculturalism?
multiculturalism, because you hate that stuff but respect that it’s her nation’s national dish and she likes it
Social Norms and Rituals are both part of what kind of culture: Material or Symbolic?
symbolic
Define: Social Norms
a part of symbolic culture ; rules for evaluating proper conduct
Define: Rituals
a part of symbolic culture ; formal ceremonies that tend to involve material objects and expected behaviors
Explain the “Shit Bow” episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm in terms of Social Norms.
larry david gets a very quick and shallow bow from his favorite sushi chef and thinks it’s a sign of respect, and then learns that a shallow bow is actually considered rude and that deep bows are a social norm in Japanese culture
Define: Social Group
2 or more people that share common ideas and values
do you have to know someone to be in the same social group as them
no?? do all republicans know each other? no
