Introduction
Culture refers to the rules, traditions, and laws that are passed down from one generation to the next. It shapes the way people live and behave in society. To fully understand culture, we need to look at its different parts and elements.
Definition of Culture
Culture is the environment we live in. It includes both ideas and physical things such as language, clothing, customs, laws, beliefs, and moral values. It represents the way of life of a group or society and influences how people behave and think.
History of Culture
Culture has existed in every human society, and each society has its own unique way of life. The term “culture” was first properly defined in 1871 by Edward Taylor, who gave one of the earliest academic definitions.
Properties of Culture
Culture has the following key features:
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It is learned
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It is social
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It is shared
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It is continuous
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It varies from society to society
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It is universal
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It is based on symbols
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It is dynamic (constantly changing)
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It is abstract (includes ideas, not just physical things)
Types of Culture
Material Culture
Material culture includes physical things created by humans. These are objects and resources people use that show their way of life.
Examples: Cars, buildings, clothes, tools, and other physical items.
Nonmaterial Culture
Nonmaterial culture includes ideas, thoughts, and beliefs that shape a society. These are not physical objects.
Examples: Traffic laws, language, dress codes, and the ideology of Pakistan.
Ideal Culture
Ideal culture refers to the values and practices a society aims to follow. It is often discussed in books, speeches, or religious teachings. However, this culture is not always fully practiced.
Example: Islam is our ideal culture. Being true Muslims is the goal, but we do not always follow Islamic teachings in daily life.
Real Culture
Real culture is what people actually do in their daily lives. It includes the values and behaviors that are practiced, even if they don’t match the ideal culture completely.
Example: Islam is our ideal culture, but in reality, not all Muslims follow it fully—so the part that is followed is the real culture.
Elements of Culture
Language
Language is a key part of culture. It is passed from one generation to the next and is used to share thoughts and express ideas. Every culture has its own language.
Examples:
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Urdu is the national language of Pakistan.
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People speaking Hindi are likely from India.
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British and Chinese cultures have different languages.
Religion
Religion gives people answers about the meaning of life and often includes moral rules, customs, and sometimes laws. It is learned as part of culture.
Examples: Most people in Pakistan follow Islam, but other religions like Christianity and Hinduism also exist.
Symbols
Symbols are things that represent ideas or meanings. Every culture uses symbols, and their meaning can vary from one culture to another.
Examples:
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The cross is a religious symbol for Christians.
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A thumbs-up gesture means approval.
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Handshakes and flags are also cultural symbols.
Norms
Norms are the rules and expectations for behavior in a society. They help people know what is acceptable. There are two types:
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Mores: Important rules that must be followed (e.g. no smoking in public places).
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Folkways: Daily habits and customs (e.g. paying bills on time, respecting elders).
Values
Values are beliefs about what is important in life. They guide how people behave and are passed from parents to children or taught by society.
Examples:
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Telling the truth
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Not cheating others
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Being respectful
Beliefs
Beliefs are ideas that people accept as true, even without seeing proof. These can be religious or based on personal or cultural opinions.
Example: Belief in Allah and that Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) is the last prophet.
Cognitive Elements
Cognitive elements are cultural lessons that help people handle problems or survive difficult situations. These skills are often taught by parents to their children.
Examples:
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How to build shelter during a storm
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How to stay safe in natural disasters
Relationship Between Culture, Crime, and Law
Culture develops through social interaction and becomes a part of society’s heritage. It is not inherited biologically but is learned. Culture helps shape how people adjust to their environment, which also influences their understanding of crime and law.
Conclusion
Culture is not something we are born with—it is learned through living in society. It includes traditions, customs, beliefs, and behaviors that are passed from generation to generation. It helps people adapt to life and shapes the way they live together.