Cultural, or cultural studies, is an academic field focused on the study of human society and social behavior. In its broadest sense, it encompasses a variety of disciplines, including sociology, psychology and history. Individuals, families, communities and nations all have their own unique cultures that are often influenced by the past as well as present-day experiences. The study of these varying cultures is known as cultural history.
In its most basic form, the term culture refers to patterns of human behavior that are learned through socialization and shared experiences. It includes everything that distinguishes a group from another in its social organization, values and attitudes. This can include language, religion, cuisine and music, among many other aspects of human activity.
One of the earliest uses of the word was in the 18th century, when it was applied to a variety of philosophical and literary pursuits. Some 19th-century philosophers, following Rousseau, viewed culture as the cultivation of the soul or mind. Others distinguished between higher culture, of the elite class, and lower, popular or folk culture. This latter was regarded as honest and natural, whereas the refined art forms of upper-class culture were thought to distort human nature.
A key aspect of this idea of culture is its dynamic nature. It is important to understand how cultural influences can change over time, whether it is through the adoption of new technology or changes in social norms and values. For example, the Beatles exemplified changing cultural dynamics when they appeared on the music scene in the 1960s, and their influence has continued over a half century later.
Another important aspect of the concept is that of family culture, which is a central part of individual and family functioning. Understanding how a person’s familial culture affects his or her life, both as a set of expectations and as a framework for assessing future situations, is critical to a full understanding of the individual.
Community and societal culture is also very important, though perhaps less dynamic than the cultural dynamics of the family. It encompasses the beliefs and attitudes of a larger group, as evidenced in its customs and traditions, as well as its ideas about how things should work and what is important. This is a particularly critical level in which to understand individual and community functioning, since the values that are articulated at this level tend to be the most influential. For example, the adage that it “takes a village” speaks to this notion of community culture. This, along with a person’s familial culture, are the most powerful forces shaping how he or she perceives and reacts to the world around him.