Sociology

Sociology

Chapter 2 Section 2 CULTURAL VARIATION

Cultural Universals

George Murdock Some needs are SO BASIC that all societies have

features to ensure their fulfillment Those needs are called CULTURAL UNIVERSALS

because they are common to all cultures.

Examples of Cultural Universals

Body adornment (clothing and "d?cor")

cooking

dancing

family

forms of greeting

funeral ceremonies

gift giving

language

sports

music

myths and folklore

religion

feasting housing

medicine toolmaking

also: traditions technology

values entertainment

government or social structure

technology

economics (trade barter, monetary system)

division of labor

transportation

communication

education

aesthetics

Culture traits

While all societies may share the same trait, not all of the traits will be structured the same due to our culture, our environment or our biological make up

For example:

Purpose of family for all societies:

Family ensures that new members will be added to society and cared for until old enough to fend for themselves

Introduces children to the components of culture so the culture can be perpetuated

The make up/definition of FAMILY differs not only within our own society, but sometimes even more so in others: "nuclear" family, divorced parents, ,,non-traditional parents, child brides, polygamy...

List of cultural universals.docx

Choose ONE cultural universal Define a way it is done in the United States (or your

culture) and the find a way it is drastically different in another. Give a brief description and a picture if available/applicable

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