KI#1 CHP 5 Introduction to Culture
,Introduction to Culture
Definitions of Habit and Custom
● A habit is a repetitive act performed by an individual, such as wearing jeans to class
every day.
● A custom is a repetitive act performed by a group, which becomes characteristic of that
group, like many students wearing jeans to class.
● The key difference is that a habit does not imply widespread adoption, while a custom is
a habit widely accepted by a group.
➔ Consider how a politician might consistently wear a specific color tie or a
celebrity might favor a particular style---A notable example is former President
Barack Obama, who famously wore a lot of blue ties during his time in office.
This choice became somewhat of a trademark for him, often associated with his
calm demeanor and approachable character. By consistently opting for blue ties,
he created a visual signature that was easily recognizable and contributed to his
public persona.
Importance of Understanding Culture
● Knowing the difference between habits and customs is important for examining cultural
practices and their importance in society.
● Understanding these ideas helps in learning about how cultures spread and how
globalization affects local traditions.
Folk Culture vs. Popular Culture
Characteristics of Folk Culture
● Folk culture is traditionally practiced by small, homogeneous groups, often in isolated
rural areas.
● It is known for changing slowly and having a strong link to local customs and nature. ---
In rural Italy, traditional agricultural practices have remained largely unchanged for
generations. The local farmers celebrate the harvest festival every autumn, showcasing
their deep connection to the land and its cycles. This event not only honors their
customs but also reinforces their identity and community ties. Over time, these customs
have become a cornerstone of local culture, reflecting the slow evolution of their way of
life, intertwined with the rhythms of nature.
, ● Examples include local festivals, traditional clothing, and regional cuisines that reflect
the community's heritage. ---Local festivals, traditional clothing, and regional cuisines
are colorful expressions of a community's history and culture. They showcase unique
customs and practices that bring people together, celebrate their roots, and highlight
what makes their heritage special.
Characteristics of Popular Culture
● Popular culture is found in large, heterogeneous societies that share certain habits
despite personal differences.
● It is characterized by rapid change and widespread dissemination through modern
technology and media.--- This means that things are changing quickly and spreading
far and wide thanks to our use of technology and media. Information or trends can go
from one place to another almost instantly, making it easier for everyone to access new
ideas and news.
● Examples include global music trends, fashion brands, and mass media entertainment
that appeal to a broad audience.
The Dynamics of Culture
Origin, Diffusion, and Distribution
● Folk culture usually comes from local traditions and is handed down through families
over time, while popular culture generally starts in cities and spreads quickly across
larger areas.
● The diffusion of folk culture is slower and more localized, whereas popular culture
spreads quickly through communication systems and transportation networks. ---In a
small rural village, the tradition of handcrafted pottery is passed down through
generations, with local artisans using methods that have been unchanged for centuries.
This folk culture remains deeply rooted in the community, as residents value the unique
styles and stories behind each piece. In contrast, a viral video featuring a new dance
craze spreads rapidly across social media, inspiring millions to replicate the moves in
cities around the world, drawing attention away from local traditions. While the pottery
may take time to gain recognition beyond the village, the dance can become a global
sensation almost overnight.
● Geographers note that folk culture usually exists only in certain areas, while popular
culture is found all over the world. ---Folk culture is like a local recipe passed down
through generations, enjoyed mainly by people in a specific region. In contrast, popular
culture is like a widely-shared dish that you can find in restaurants everywhere,
appealing to a global audience.
, ● Folk culture is transmitted from one location to another relatively slow on a small scale
primary through relocation diffusion (migration).
➔ What geographic factors account for the diversity of cultures in the Himalayas?
—The diversity of cultures in the Himalayas has been the result of the high
mountains, and arid and tropical areas around them, isolating the region.
Impact of Globalization on Culture
● The growth of popular culture puts unique local cultures at risk, which can cause a
decrease in local diversity.
● When folk culture disappears, it can reduce the interesting ideas and perspectives we
get from different cultures.
● Popular culture tends to modify the environment to align with global values, while folk
culture often promotes sustainability and environmental protection. ---In many urban
areas, popular culture has led to the proliferation of global fast-food chains, which
modify local landscapes and eating habits to fit a standardized model. In contrast, a folk
culture village may prioritize the use of local materials in building homes and advocate
for organic farming methods that protect the ecosystem. This folk culture approach not
only preserves traditional practices but also supports biodiversity and sustainable
resource use, illustrating the tension between global commercial interests and local
environmental stewardship.
Elements of Culture
Daily Necessities
● Daily necessities include essential aspects of life such as food, clothing, and shelter,
which vary significantly between cultures.
● Example: Traditional clothing in folk cultures often reflects local materials and climate,
while popular culture clothing may follow global fashion trends.
Leisure Activities
● Leisure activities encompass arts and recreation, which differ widely across cultures.
● Example: In the U.S., popular leisure activities may include watching sports or movies,
while in Pakistan, traditional games or family gatherings may be more common.
,KI#1 CHP 5 Cultural Regions
,Cultural Regions and Their Characteristics
Definition of Cultural Regions
● Cultural regions can be categorized into three distinct types:
1. Vernacular
2. Formal
3. Functional
● For instance, a vernacular region could be a community that identifies strongly with its
regional traditions and dialects, like the Midwest in the United States. Formal regions,
on the other hand, might refer to the legal boundaries of a state or country, defined by
governmental laws. Functional regions are organized around a central point, such as a
metropolitan area that serves as the hub for transportation and commerce.
Understanding these classifications allows us to appreciate how cultural identities
shape our interactions with each other and our surroundings.
● Vernacular regions are perceived by people to exist based on shared cultural traits and
identity.
● Formal regions are defined by official boundaries and characteristics, such as political
or administrative divisions.
● Functional regions are based on specific functions or activities, such as the area of
influence of a sports team.
Size and Distribution of Folk vs. Popular Culture
● Folk culture usually spreads over a smaller area than popular culture. The difference in
how they spread is due to the level of connection or communication between people.
● Folk culture usually stays within certain communities because of how closely they are
connected. This can result in different cultural practices, even in nearby groups.
● Popular culture, in contrast, spreads rapidly due to mass media and global
communication, leading to homogenization of cultural practices.
Origin and Diffusion of Folk and Popular
Music
Characteristics of Folk Music
, ● Folk music is traditionally passed down orally and reflects the experiences and stories
of a community. ---In a small village, the elders gather each evening to sing the folk
songs that tell of their ancestors' hardships and triumphs. One such song recounts the
tale of a brave woman who led her people through a harsh winter, using her wit and
wisdom to survive. As the younger generations listen and learn, they absorb not only
the melodies but also the lessons of resilience and unity woven into the lyrics. This
tradition of storytelling through music ensures that their history and culture remain alive
and valued.
● It often addresses life-cycle events (births, deaths, marriages) and environmental
features (agriculture, climate).
● When people move to new places, they bring their traditional music along, which helps
it spread to different areas.
Characteristics of Popular Music
● Popular music is created by specific individuals for commercial purposes, aiming for
mass appeal and performance.
● It often involves advanced technical skills and the use of sophisticated electronic
equipment in production.
● Popular musicians tend to cluster in urban areas where other artists reside, fostering
collaboration and innovation. Famous musicians usually live in cities where other artists
are also located, which helps them work together and come up with new ideas.
Transformation of Sports from Folk to
Popular Culture
Origins of Folk Sports
● Many sports began as folk customs, evolving from local traditions and practices.
● Soccer, known as football in many countries, originated in England as a folk custom
before becoming a global phenomenon.
Diffusion of Popular Sports
● The transformation of soccer into a popular sport began in the 1800s with the
establishment of clubs for organized recreation.
● With more free time and extra money, more people started to enjoy sports and attend
games, which helped turn sports events into businesses.
Surviving Folk Sports and Their Cultural Significance
, ● Cricket remains popular in the UK and former British colonies, showcasing regional
preferences in sports.
● Ice hockey is predominantly played in colder climates, reflecting environmental
influences on sport.
● Wushu is a traditional Chinese martial art that highlights the cultural heritage of China.
● Baseball's popularity in Japan illustrates the diffusion of sports through cultural
exchange.
● Australian rules football and lacrosse represent unique adaptations of sports that
developed in isolation from other sporting traditions.
,Introduction to Culture
Definitions of Habit and Custom
● A habit is a repetitive act performed by an individual, such as wearing jeans to class
every day.
● A custom is a repetitive act performed by a group, which becomes characteristic of that
group, like many students wearing jeans to class.
● The key difference is that a habit does not imply widespread adoption, while a custom is
a habit widely accepted by a group.
➔ Consider how a politician might consistently wear a specific color tie or a
celebrity might favor a particular style---A notable example is former President
Barack Obama, who famously wore a lot of blue ties during his time in office.
This choice became somewhat of a trademark for him, often associated with his
calm demeanor and approachable character. By consistently opting for blue ties,
he created a visual signature that was easily recognizable and contributed to his
public persona.
Importance of Understanding Culture
● Knowing the difference between habits and customs is important for examining cultural
practices and their importance in society.
● Understanding these ideas helps in learning about how cultures spread and how
globalization affects local traditions.
Folk Culture vs. Popular Culture
Characteristics of Folk Culture
● Folk culture is traditionally practiced by small, homogeneous groups, often in isolated
rural areas.
● It is known for changing slowly and having a strong link to local customs and nature. ---
In rural Italy, traditional agricultural practices have remained largely unchanged for
generations. The local farmers celebrate the harvest festival every autumn, showcasing
their deep connection to the land and its cycles. This event not only honors their
customs but also reinforces their identity and community ties. Over time, these customs
have become a cornerstone of local culture, reflecting the slow evolution of their way of
life, intertwined with the rhythms of nature.
, ● Examples include local festivals, traditional clothing, and regional cuisines that reflect
the community's heritage. ---Local festivals, traditional clothing, and regional cuisines
are colorful expressions of a community's history and culture. They showcase unique
customs and practices that bring people together, celebrate their roots, and highlight
what makes their heritage special.
Characteristics of Popular Culture
● Popular culture is found in large, heterogeneous societies that share certain habits
despite personal differences.
● It is characterized by rapid change and widespread dissemination through modern
technology and media.--- This means that things are changing quickly and spreading
far and wide thanks to our use of technology and media. Information or trends can go
from one place to another almost instantly, making it easier for everyone to access new
ideas and news.
● Examples include global music trends, fashion brands, and mass media entertainment
that appeal to a broad audience.
The Dynamics of Culture
Origin, Diffusion, and Distribution
● Folk culture usually comes from local traditions and is handed down through families
over time, while popular culture generally starts in cities and spreads quickly across
larger areas.
● The diffusion of folk culture is slower and more localized, whereas popular culture
spreads quickly through communication systems and transportation networks. ---In a
small rural village, the tradition of handcrafted pottery is passed down through
generations, with local artisans using methods that have been unchanged for centuries.
This folk culture remains deeply rooted in the community, as residents value the unique
styles and stories behind each piece. In contrast, a viral video featuring a new dance
craze spreads rapidly across social media, inspiring millions to replicate the moves in
cities around the world, drawing attention away from local traditions. While the pottery
may take time to gain recognition beyond the village, the dance can become a global
sensation almost overnight.
● Geographers note that folk culture usually exists only in certain areas, while popular
culture is found all over the world. ---Folk culture is like a local recipe passed down
through generations, enjoyed mainly by people in a specific region. In contrast, popular
culture is like a widely-shared dish that you can find in restaurants everywhere,
appealing to a global audience.
, ● Folk culture is transmitted from one location to another relatively slow on a small scale
primary through relocation diffusion (migration).
➔ What geographic factors account for the diversity of cultures in the Himalayas?
—The diversity of cultures in the Himalayas has been the result of the high
mountains, and arid and tropical areas around them, isolating the region.
Impact of Globalization on Culture
● The growth of popular culture puts unique local cultures at risk, which can cause a
decrease in local diversity.
● When folk culture disappears, it can reduce the interesting ideas and perspectives we
get from different cultures.
● Popular culture tends to modify the environment to align with global values, while folk
culture often promotes sustainability and environmental protection. ---In many urban
areas, popular culture has led to the proliferation of global fast-food chains, which
modify local landscapes and eating habits to fit a standardized model. In contrast, a folk
culture village may prioritize the use of local materials in building homes and advocate
for organic farming methods that protect the ecosystem. This folk culture approach not
only preserves traditional practices but also supports biodiversity and sustainable
resource use, illustrating the tension between global commercial interests and local
environmental stewardship.
Elements of Culture
Daily Necessities
● Daily necessities include essential aspects of life such as food, clothing, and shelter,
which vary significantly between cultures.
● Example: Traditional clothing in folk cultures often reflects local materials and climate,
while popular culture clothing may follow global fashion trends.
Leisure Activities
● Leisure activities encompass arts and recreation, which differ widely across cultures.
● Example: In the U.S., popular leisure activities may include watching sports or movies,
while in Pakistan, traditional games or family gatherings may be more common.
,KI#1 CHP 5 Cultural Regions
,Cultural Regions and Their Characteristics
Definition of Cultural Regions
● Cultural regions can be categorized into three distinct types:
1. Vernacular
2. Formal
3. Functional
● For instance, a vernacular region could be a community that identifies strongly with its
regional traditions and dialects, like the Midwest in the United States. Formal regions,
on the other hand, might refer to the legal boundaries of a state or country, defined by
governmental laws. Functional regions are organized around a central point, such as a
metropolitan area that serves as the hub for transportation and commerce.
Understanding these classifications allows us to appreciate how cultural identities
shape our interactions with each other and our surroundings.
● Vernacular regions are perceived by people to exist based on shared cultural traits and
identity.
● Formal regions are defined by official boundaries and characteristics, such as political
or administrative divisions.
● Functional regions are based on specific functions or activities, such as the area of
influence of a sports team.
Size and Distribution of Folk vs. Popular Culture
● Folk culture usually spreads over a smaller area than popular culture. The difference in
how they spread is due to the level of connection or communication between people.
● Folk culture usually stays within certain communities because of how closely they are
connected. This can result in different cultural practices, even in nearby groups.
● Popular culture, in contrast, spreads rapidly due to mass media and global
communication, leading to homogenization of cultural practices.
Origin and Diffusion of Folk and Popular
Music
Characteristics of Folk Music
, ● Folk music is traditionally passed down orally and reflects the experiences and stories
of a community. ---In a small village, the elders gather each evening to sing the folk
songs that tell of their ancestors' hardships and triumphs. One such song recounts the
tale of a brave woman who led her people through a harsh winter, using her wit and
wisdom to survive. As the younger generations listen and learn, they absorb not only
the melodies but also the lessons of resilience and unity woven into the lyrics. This
tradition of storytelling through music ensures that their history and culture remain alive
and valued.
● It often addresses life-cycle events (births, deaths, marriages) and environmental
features (agriculture, climate).
● When people move to new places, they bring their traditional music along, which helps
it spread to different areas.
Characteristics of Popular Music
● Popular music is created by specific individuals for commercial purposes, aiming for
mass appeal and performance.
● It often involves advanced technical skills and the use of sophisticated electronic
equipment in production.
● Popular musicians tend to cluster in urban areas where other artists reside, fostering
collaboration and innovation. Famous musicians usually live in cities where other artists
are also located, which helps them work together and come up with new ideas.
Transformation of Sports from Folk to
Popular Culture
Origins of Folk Sports
● Many sports began as folk customs, evolving from local traditions and practices.
● Soccer, known as football in many countries, originated in England as a folk custom
before becoming a global phenomenon.
Diffusion of Popular Sports
● The transformation of soccer into a popular sport began in the 1800s with the
establishment of clubs for organized recreation.
● With more free time and extra money, more people started to enjoy sports and attend
games, which helped turn sports events into businesses.
Surviving Folk Sports and Their Cultural Significance
, ● Cricket remains popular in the UK and former British colonies, showcasing regional
preferences in sports.
● Ice hockey is predominantly played in colder climates, reflecting environmental
influences on sport.
● Wushu is a traditional Chinese martial art that highlights the cultural heritage of China.
● Baseball's popularity in Japan illustrates the diffusion of sports through cultural
exchange.
● Australian rules football and lacrosse represent unique adaptations of sports that
developed in isolation from other sporting traditions.
