Culture can be defined as the shared beliefs, values, customs, behaviours, and artifacts that characterise a group or society. It is the way of life of a particular group of people. Also, it encompasses everything from language and religion to food and fashion. Culture is transmitted from one generation to the next through various means such as family, education, and social institutions.
Subculture, on the other hand, refers to a group within a larger society. They share certain distinctive norms, values, and behaviours that differ from those of the dominant culture. Subcultures can arise from differences in ethnicity, religion, gender, age, music, and other factors. Subcultures often form around shared interests or beliefs. Furthermore, members of a subculture may exhibit distinctive styles of dress, language, and behavior.
For example, the punk subculture emerged in the 1970s as a reaction against the mainstream music and culture. It was characterised by its rebellious attitude, distinctive clothing style, and loud, fast-paced music. Similarly, the hip-hop subculture originated in African American and Latino communities in the 1970s. It is largely characterised by its distinctive music, dance, fashion, and language.
Subcultures can also be influenced by geographical location, social class, and political views. For instance, the goth subculture emerged in the UK in the 1980s and was characterised by its dark, morbid aesthetic. It has since spread to other countries and has become a global phenomenon.
Culture and subculture are closely related but distinct concepts. Culture refers to the shared beliefs, values, customs, behaviours, and artifacts that characterise a group or society. Subculture, on the other hand, refers to a group within a larger society. They share distinctive norms, values, and behaviours that differ from those of the dominant culture.
Cultural Nationalism ties national identity to culture, emphasising a shared heritage like language, traditions, and values. In a globalised modern world, it helps protect national identities from foreign influences. This article examines its key ideas, historical origins, and contemporary relevance.
Ethnography, rooted in anthropology, is a qualitative research method where researchers immerse themselves in subjects’ daily lives. A crucial tool in Media and Communications research, it offers deep cultural and social insights into media use, often missed by quantitative methods.
Today’s media profoundly influences how we view cultures, shaping our beliefs and attitudes. Cultural Diversity encompasses the myriad of cultural identities, values, and practices exchanged or expressed. This article delves into its importance in media, ramifications, related theories and concepts.
Cultural Conservatism, a potent force amid diverse ideologies, moulds societal values via tradition and heritage. It guides individuals and societies amidst cultural evolution. This article delves into its principles, historical origins, global impact, criticisms, and media implications, summarising its relevance.
Cultural Ecology is a pivotal theory in Media and Communications. It investigates the dynamic relationship between culture and the environment. This article analyses its core principles, historical origins, and modern significance in the context of today’s interconnected and globalised world.
Folklore is a rich blend of cultural traditions, shaping global collective identities. It comprises oral traditions, myths, and legends passed through generations. Folklore remains resilient, retaining cultural essence amid modernity. This article explores its significance and diverse forms across culture.
In society, diverse cultures regularly share ideas and practices, highlighting the significance of Cultural Hybridity. This concept elucidates how cultures mix and transform, showcasing the dynamic nature of societies where boundaries blur, fostering the emergence of fresh, distinctive cultural expressions.
In Media and Communications, Cultural Capital refers to the cultural backgrounds of individuals in society. Introduced in the 1970s by French sociologist Pierre Bourdieu, it emphasises knowledge, skills, and cultural assets’ significance, impacting social status and success in a society.
Subcultural Theory, rooted in sociology, offers a compelling lens for exploring cultural subgroups in Media and Communications. It unveils societal diversity, delving into the emergence, evolution, and communication dynamics of subcultures, providing a rich understanding of their impact upon society.
Cultural Appropriation involves adopting elements from one culture by another, without proper understanding or respect. It spans various domains like fashion, music, and language, prompting debates over power and historical contexts. This article explores this controversial issue, addressing its significance.