The elements of culture include the symbols, language, values, beliefs, and norms by which a society defines its culture.
The elements of culture include:
- Symbols: anything that carries a particular meaning recognized by people who share the same culture
- Language: System of symbols that allows people to communicate with one another
- Values: Culturally-defined standards that serve as broad guidelines for social living
- Beliefs: Specific statements that people hold to be true
- Norms: Rules and expectations by which a society guides the behavior of its members
These elements of culture may be seen in various contexts over time and across geography.
Key Points
• The elements of culture include the symbols, language, values, beliefs, and norms by which a society defines its culture.
• These elements of culture may be seen in various contexts over time and across geography.
Key Terms
elements of culture: the symbols, language, values, beliefs, and norms by which a society defines its culture
culture: the beliefs, values, behavior, and material objects that constitute a people’s way of life