Why is culture Important?
Humans are animals
Unlike other species, we attain our needs through culture.
Culture is..
Humans primary adaptive tool
We change our environment to suit us rather than biologically adapting to them
Culture converts biological needs into practices, beliefs and customs
Defining cultures single biggest debate in anthropology
Characteristics of Culture
Culture is learned - via enculturation
Enculturation - The process by which you learn your culture
Culture is shared - makes culture predictable
Culture is integrated - all components come together to function as a whole
AIM - American Indian Movement *
Culture is Abstract/Symbolic
Culture is Dynamic
Sharing = Predictable