Question

Explain what social psychologists mean by culture and how is it broader than most average people typically think of culture (Such as "Korean culture"). Give 3 different examples that demonstrate this broader definition.

Answer 1

Culture, according to social psychologists is the set of traditions, behaviours, ideas and attitudes that exist within large groups of peoples usually of a common religion, caste, surroundings(area), family or something familiar. These are passed on from one generation to the next and are typically resistant to change over time. Culture and mind are inseperable and mutually constitutive, meaning that people are shaped by their culture and their culture is shaped by them. Cultural values and norms shapes peoples behaviour, emotions etc.

Examples:

1) Chinese Culture: Majority of the chinese are superstitious and attach meanings to various things. It is one of the most oldest civilizations in the world. White flowers which represents purity and innocence is represented as ghost and death in chinese culture, a clock as a gift symbolises to an end to relationship etc, handkerchief symbolises bidding farewell, green hat means that the wife is being unfaithful.

2) Egyptian Culture: It is the right to ask for the salt to add to your food, but is an insult in egyptian culture, it means you repulsed by the taste of the meal served.

3) Venezuelan Culture: Being early for a dinner/lunch invitation means the personis either overly eager or greedy whereas punctuality is a necessity normally.