Culture refers to the shared beliefs, values, practices, and traditions that define a group or society. This category covers topics related to cultural diversity, including the study of different cultures, sub-cultures, and their significance in shaping our world. From exploring the origins and evolution of culture to examining the impact of globalization on cultural practices, this category provides insights into the diverse and complex nature of human culture.
Liminality, a term first coined by anthropologist Arnold van Gennep in his work "The Rites of Passage", originates from the Latin word 'limen,' which means 'threshold.' This concept refers to the transitional period or phase of a rite of passage, during which the participant lacks a defined social status.
Couvade, a term derived from the French 'couvee' meaning 'to hatch,' is a unique cross-cultural phenomenon that describes the practices in which a father experiences sympathetic pregnancy symptoms. These can range from minor discomfort to severe pain. Edward B. Tylor, a pioneer in cultural anthropology, first introduced this intriguing concept.
Three central elements of magic: The practitioner, the practical aim, and the magical formula. These elements are integral to the understanding and practice of magic across a wide range of cultures, forming a framework that helps anthropologists analyze the significance of magic in society.
The culture of poverty theory, first postulated by Oscar Lewis in the 1960s, proposes that poverty is not solely an economic issue, but also a cultural one. According to this theory, the poor are not simply victims of economic circumstances but also maintain a set of values, beliefs, and behaviors that perpetuate their impoverished condition.
The dichotomy of Universalisation and Parochialisation represents the cultural dynamic of an increasingly interconnected world. Understanding these processes provides valuable insights into how societies and cultures negotiate their identities in the face of globalisation.
The complex fabric of human societies and cultures can be better understood through the dual concepts of "Great Tradition" and "Little Tradition", first introduced by Robert Redfield in his studies of Indian society in the mid-20th century.
The terms "folk" and "lore" individually pertain to people and knowledge, respectively. However, when combined as "folklore", they represent a rich cultural field of study filled with stories, myths, customs, and practices that have been passed down through generations.
The Culture-Environment Continuum concept constitutes an influential and challenging theoretical paradigm that has greatly impacted the field of cultural anthropology. It helps to clarify the relationship between cultures and their natural environments, asserting that both are inextricably connected and continuously impact each other.
Cultural ecology is a multifaceted concept that resonates across various disciplines, weaving a rich tapestry of insights about the interplay between human cultures and their ecological surroundings. It embodies the complex relationships, adaptations
In a broad sense, gossip can be defined as informal, private conversations about other people, usually not present during the discourse. These conversations, often anecdotal or speculative, can involve both negative and positive statements.
In a global context replete with variety, Counter Culture refers to a subculture whose norms and values radically deviate from those of the mainstream society.
