UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS

CULTURE CULTURE of any society represents an adaptation or

adjustment to the various conditions of life, including
• Anything made by man, language, customs, values,
their physical, social, and supernatural environment.
norms, mores, rules, tools, technologies, products,
organizations and institutions
People develop a culture of their own out of their
• Serves as a foundation of mans continuing interaction
learnings and experiences from their environmental
with his surroundings
exposure.
• Culture is the systems of knowledge shared by a
relatively large group of people.
SOCIETY
• Culture is communication, communication is culture.
•It is a product of human social processes intended to
•Culture in its broadest sense is cultivated behavior;
meet basic needs for survival
that is the totality of a person's learned, accumulated
•Organized by rules of conduct, customs, traditions,
experience which is socially transmitted, or more
folkways and mores and expectations that ensures
briefly, behavior through social learning.
appropriate behavior
•A culture is a way of life of a group of people--the
behaviors, beliefs, values, and symbols that they
SOCIETY IS AN IMPORTANT PRODUCT OF
accept, generally without thinking about them, and that
HUMAN INTERACTION AND
are passed along by communication and imitation from
INTERCONNECTEDNESS.
one generation to the next.
•Culture consists of patterns, explicit and implicit, of
Studying society provides us an idea of its importance
behavior acquired and transmitted by symbols,
in creating an equal, just and humane society.
constituting the distinctive achievement of human
groups, including their embodiments in artifacts; the
Man’s social behavior is greatly shape by society
essential core of culture consists of traditional ideas
where he belongs. To identify and explain well man’s
and especially their attached values; culture systems
social behavior, it is necessary to deal on wide variety
may, on the one hand, be considered as products of
of social dimensions.
action, on the other hand, as conditioning influences
upon further action.
CHARACTERISTICS OF A SOCIETY
•Culture is the sum of total of the learned behavior of a
1. Society is a complex whole.
group of people that are generally considered to be the
2. Society is relatively large.
tradition of that people and are transmitted from
3. Society socializes its members.
generation to generation.
4. Society endures, produces and restrains its members
•Culture is a collective programming of the mind that
for generation.
distinguishes the members of one group or category of
5. Society holds its members through a common
people from another.
culture.
6. Society has a defined geographical territory
SOCIETY is a group of people interacting with each
other
POLITICS
•the activities of the government, members of law-
People that make up a society share a common culture.
making organizations, or people who try to influence
They speak the same language, follow the same
the way a country is governed
traditions, adhere to the same beliefs, use the same
•refers to a set of activities associated with the
technologies.
governance of a country, or an area. It involves making
decisions that apply to members of a group
The CULTURE shared by the members of the
SOCIETY defines that SOCIETY
Politics talk about collective decision of individuals
based on defined rules of society. These rules binds
Culture creates the identities of individual which are
distinct from one another

Geographical and territorial boundaries contribute to

cultural diversities of human society

CULTURES differ depending on the needs of the

individual.
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
people together in order to preserve culture and •Politics foster moral and intellectual growth
improve human life. •Politics foster self-knowledge

•Politics is a collective activity, involving people who ANTHROPOLOGY, POLITICAL SCIENCE AND
accept a common membership or at least acknowledge SOCIOLOGY
a shared fate •Politics presumes an initial diversity of
views
•Politics involves reconciling differences through
discussion and persuasion
•Political decisions became authoritative policy for a
group, binding members to decisions that are
implemented by force if necessary.

SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDYING CULTURE,

SOCIETY AND POLITICS

Culture make it possible for man to adapt and integrate

himself to his environment by being creative and
resourceful in coming up with ways and means of
survival
• Culture establishes patterns of acceptable social
behavior
• Culture conveys and facilitates meanings through
verbal and non-verbal communication
• Culture produces man made things
• Culture contributes to overall human satisfaction

SIGNIFICANCE OF SOCIETY
•It provides a system of stratification
•It provides basic needs of its members
•It regulates and controls people’s behavior
•It provides the means of social participation
•It provides mutual support to the members

SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDYING SOCIETY

•Representation of our identity
•Characterize the totality of a territory
•Avenue for economic interdependence
•Symbol political independence

SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDYING POLITICS

•Politics can enhance personal happiness
•Politics can enrich human freedom and well-being
•Politics affects human lives
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
•is the study of living people (religion, social system,
language, clothing, food, beliefs, etc.) Human
differences is cultural not biological
Linguistic Anthropology
•Is the study of language, its evolution, its connection
to other languages and others. Understand the
centrality of language to culture
Archeology
•Refers to the study of dead culture (religion, social
system, language, food, beliefs, traditions, etc.) Every
culture has history

Goals RESPECT, FAIRNESS, PEACE

• See the commonalities among people
• Look at what makes us the same to understand more
ANTHROPOLOGY about human nature
Answers the question.. • Discover what makes people different and preserve
What does it mean to be human? diversity
Who are you? • Look at one’s own culture more objectively
Where do you came from?
ANTHROPOLOGY
Where did it start? •Is the branch of knowledge which deals to the
Anthropology started as the study of non-European scientific study of man, his works, his body, his
people by European people (outward). behavior and values within a specific time and space.
•Written records about non-Europeans Also, it includes man’s physical, social and cultural
•Focus on kinship, language, race, religion, cultural development that describe and explain the
perception and others phenomenon of human life.
•Etymological Definition
Who started this field? “Anthropos” (Greek) = MAN
Franz Boas- Father of Modern American Anthropology “Logos” (Greek) = STUDY
•Anthropology gives us information concerning mans
Historical Particularism behavior in relation to his environment
•Study of mankind
Each society is considered as having a unique form of •Science that treats the origin, development, and
culture that cannot be understood under an overall especially the cultural development, customs, beliefs
definition of general culture. of man
Concept
Anthropology is the study of people and their culture. POLITICAL SCIENCE
•Systematic study of a state and its government, with
4-field Approach of Anthropology the relationship of men in the community, with relation
• Cultural Anthropology of men and groups to the state itself and the relations
•Archeology of a state with other sovereign states abroad
•Biological Anthropology •Etymological Definition
•Linguistic Anthropology “Polis” (Greek) = CITY
“Scire” (Latin) = TO KNOW
•Study of the state and the government
•Political Science is a social science regarding the
Subject of Inquiry practice and theory of politics, the analysis of political
Biological Anthropology systems and the study of political behavior
•Refers to the study of human origins (genetics, race, •Emphasizes the use of power, interest, influence and
evolutions, fossils, primates) Understanding human diplomacy
evolution •Analyze how people attain political position, maintain
Cultural Anthropology their position, and the outcomes of their policy
implementation
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
Goals RESPECT, SOCIAL ORDER •The scientific study of patterned, shared human
•Make people a better citizens behavior
•Keep social order and harmony •Analyzes human interaction. Social interactions:
•Protect the rights of an individual social arts, social relationships, social organization,
•Avoid conflict and promote cooperation social structures, social processes

SOCIOLOGY Goals
Answers the question.. •Obtain possible theories and principles about society
How do we study society? as well as various aspects of social life.
What are the things that you think influence your life? •Study the nature of humanity to further examine roles
What is life to people living in places with different within a society
culture and behavior? •Appreciate that all things in society are
interdependent
SOCIOLOGY •Expose minds to different perspective
Where did it start?
Sociology start as an academic field right at the height
of Industrial Revolution which mobilized the entire
population. These era brought great changes in the way
people live in a society.
Study of European people of European SOCIETY

Who started this field?

Isidore Auguste Comte- French Philosopher and
mathematician. He coined the term sociology.
Systematic science of studying society and in dealing
with the solution of its basic problem
Emmanuel Joseph Sieyes- coined the term sociology in
Concept 1980 in an unpublished manuscript.
Sociology is the patterns of social interaction, and Isidore Auguste Comte- reinvented the term sociology
culture of everyday life.
Subject of Inquiry
Anything in a society that influence people’s lives- like
social phenomena, issues and problems.

Fields
•Social Organization
•Social Psychology
•Applied Sociology
•Human Ecology
in 1838
Subject of Inquiry
Social Organization
The study of sociology broadens the experience of
•Group involvement
individual as they learn to discard prejudices and
Social Psychology
become more understanding of the customs of other
•The study of how individual or group behavior is
people and realize that truth is relative and “good” or
influence by the presence and behavior of others
Subject of Inquiry
Applied Sociology
•The application of sociological ideas, concepts,
theories and models to address every problem or
situations
Human Ecology
•The study of interaction between man and nature in
different culture
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
“bad” behavior depends upon the norms of conduct of
a society in which behavior takes place
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
“CULTURE IS THE PROCESS BY WHICH A 1. Culture is learned and acquired. It is acquired
PERSON BECOMES ALL THAT THEY WERE through the senses and experiences from different
CREATED CAPABLE OF BEING” agents of socialization. The means of acquisition are
-THOMAS imitation, conditioning, suggestion, formal or informal
CARLYLE instruction and mass media.
2. Culture is shared and transmitted. To
CHARACTERISTICS OF CULTURE continuously to preserve culture, it is best to share to
 Culture is learned: Culture is not something other people or to transmit it to the next generation.
that we are born with. It is something that we Culture is transmitted through language.
learn from the people around us, starting from 3. Culture is adaptive and dynamic. Culture is
our family and then our community. We learn always changing new ideas, procedures and techniques
the norms, values, and beliefs of our culture are added, modified or discarded.
through observation, imitation, and explicit 4. Culture is cumulative. Certain features of culture
instruction. have been retained today and they are modified and
 Culture is shared: Culture is not something innovated to make them new and updated.
that is unique to each individual. It is shared 5. Culture is ideational. Culture is an ideal pattern of
by a group of people who live in the same behavior which the members are expected to follow.
community or society. This means that there is 6. Culture gratifies human needs. Culture continuous
a certain degree of uniformity in the way that to exist if it satisfies human needs biologically or
people from the same culture think, act, and psychologically
feel. 7. Culture is social. Culture is a group product
 Culture is cumulative: Culture is constantly developed by many individuals interacting in group.
evolving as new ideas and practices are 8. Culture is integration. Culture is integrated on the
introduced. However, it also builds on the past. personality of each individual and become parts of
This means that the culture of a group of their behavior.
people is influenced by the cultures of the 9. Culture is not usually known by people. The way
groups that came before them. people interact and do things in their everyday lives
 Culture changes: Culture is not static. It is seems natural. People are unaware of their culture
constantly changing in response to new ideas, because they are so close to it and know it well.
technologies, and experiences. This is why it is 10. Culture gives people a range of permissibly
important to be open to change and to be behavior patterns. Culture commonly allow a range
willing to adapt to new cultural norms. of ways on how man will act.
 Culture is dynamic: Culture is not rigid. It is
flexible and adaptable. This means that it can COMPONENTS OF CULTURE
be changed by the people who participate in it. TYPES OF CULTURE
 Culture is ideational: Culture is not just about
physical objects or behaviors. It is also about NON-MATERIAL MATERIA
the ideas and beliefs that people hold. These L
ideas and beliefs shape the way that people COMMUNICA COGNIT BEHAVIO
think, act, and feel. TION IVE RAL
LANGUAGE IDEAS NORMS TECHNOLOG
 Culture is diverse: There is no single, SYMBOLS VALUES MORES ICAL
monolithic culture. There are many different ACCOU LAWS TOOLS
cultures, each with its own unique set of NTS FOLKWA STRUCTURE
norms, values, and beliefs. This diversity is YS S
RITUALS FOOD
what makes the world a more interesting and FASHION
vibrant place. ACCESSORIE
 Culture gives us a range of permissible S
behavior: Culture provides us with a range of
permissible behavior. This means that there are
certain things that are considered acceptable in Types of culture
our culture and certain things that are not. This  Non-material culture: This refers to the
range of permissible behavior helps us to intangible aspects of culture, such as the
function as a society and to avoid conflict. values, beliefs, and ideas that are shared by a
group of people. It also includes the ways that
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
people communicate with each other, such as
through language and symbols. COGNITIVE COMPONENT
 Material culture: This refers to the physical •VALUES- culturally defined standards of desirability,
objects that are created by a group of people, goodness and beauty which serves as broad guidelines
such as tools, clothing, and buildings. It also for social living
includes the way that people organize their •ACCOUNTS- how people use that common language
physical environment, such as the layout of to explain, justify, rationalize, excuse, or legitimized
their cities and towns. our behavior. •Motives- why of our behavior.

BEHAVIORAL COMPONENT
Components of culture •NORMS- rules and expectations by which a society
 Communication: This includes language, guides the behavior of its members. Norms are
symbols, and nonverbal communication. standards that define the obligatory and expected
Language is the primary way that people behaviors of people in various situations.
communicate with each other. Symbols are •Mores- moralistic values
objects or actions that have a particular •Laws- most formal and important norm
meaning within a culture. Nonverbal •Folkways- habitual pattern, behavior patterns of
communication includes things like body society which are organized and repetitive
language, facial expressions, and eye contact. •Rituals- highly scripted ceremonies that follow a
 Cognitive: This includes ideas, values, and specific sequenced of action
beliefs. Ideas are the thoughts and concepts
that people have about the world. Values are MATERIAL COMPONENT
the standards that people hold about what is Material component of culture refers to physical
good and bad, right and wrong. Beliefs are the objects of culture, such as machines, equipment, tools,
things that people accept as true. books, clothing, etc.
 Behavioral: This includes norms, mores, laws,
folkways, and rituals. Norms are the informal  A product of human interaction to
rules of behavior that guide social interaction. environment: Culture is created by people as
Mores are the strong norms that are considered they interact with their environment. This
to be essential for the smooth functioning of includes the physical environment, such as the
society. Laws are the formal rules of behavior climate and the natural resources, as well as
that are enforced by the government. Folkways the social environment, such as the other
are the informal norms that are not strictly people who live in the same community.
enforced. Rituals are the regularized, patterned  A social heritage that is complex and
behaviors that are performed on special socially transmitted: Culture is passed down
occasions. from generation to generation through social
learning. This means that we learn our culture
from the people around us, such as our parents,
our teachers, and our friends.
COMMUNICATION COMPONENT  Provides socially acceptable patterns for
•LANGUAGE- it forms the core of all culture meeting biological and social needs: Culture
•SYMBOLS- along with language and non-verbal provides us with a set of guidelines for how to
signals, symbols form a function of symbolic meet our biological needs, such as food,
interaction shelter, and clothing. It also provides us with a
Symbols vary within cultures, cross-culturally and set of guidelines for how to meet our social
change overtime needs, such as love, belonging, and self-
COGNITIVE COMPONENT esteem.
•IDEAS/KNOWLEDGE/BELIEFS  A distinguishing factor: Culture is what
 Ideas- mental representation, used to organized distinguishes one group of people from
stimulus another. It is the things that we share with the
 Knowledge- Storehouse where we accumulate people who belong to our culture and that
representations, information, facts, make us different from the people who belong
assumptions. Support learning to other cultures.
 Beliefs- accept a proposition, statement,  An established pattern of behavior: Culture
description of fact as true is a set of established patterns of behavior.
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
These patterns of behavior are learned and because culture is shared through
shared by the members of a culture. communication. We use language to
 Cumulative: Culture is cumulative. This communicate the norms, values, and beliefs of
means that it builds on the past. The culture of our culture to others.
a group of people is influenced by the cultures
of the groups that came before them. TRANSMISSION OF CULTURE
 Meaningful to human being: Culture is ENCULTURATION- the process of learning culture
meaningful to human beings. It gives us a of one’s own group
sense of identity and belonging. It also
provides us with a way to understand the Enculturation: This is the process of learning the
world around us and to make sense of our norms, values, and beliefs of one's own culture. It
experiences. begins at a young age and continues throughout our
lives. We learn our culture through observation,
ASPECTS OF CULTURE imitation, and explicit instruction. The main agents of
 Dynamic, flexible and adaptive: Culture is enculturation are our parents, our siblings, and our
constantly changing and evolving. It is teachers.
influenced by a variety of factors, such as the
environment, technology, and new ideas. This ACCULTURATION- process of learning some new
means that culture is not static, but rather it is traits from another culture
dynamic and adaptive.
 Shared: Culture is shared by the members of a Acculturation: This is the process of learning the
group. This means that the members of a norms, values, and beliefs of another culture. It can
culture have a common understanding of the happen when we move to a new country or when we
norms, values, and beliefs that are part of their come into contact with a new culture. Acculturation
culture. can be a gradual process or it can happen more
 Learned through socialization or quickly. The extent to which we adopt the new culture
enculturation: Culture is learned. This means will depend on a number of factors, such as our age,
that we acquire the norms, values, and beliefs our personality, and the nature of our contact with the
of our culture through the process of new culture.
socialization or enculturation. Socialization is
the process of learning the norms and values of ASSIMILATION- process in which individual
our own culture, while enculturation is the entirely loses any awareness of his/her previous group
process of learning the norms and values of a identity and takes on the culture and attitudes of
different culture. another group
 Patterned social interaction: Culture is
reflected in the way that people interact with Assimilation: This is the process of losing one's own
each other. This includes the way that they cultural identity and adopting the culture of another
communicate, the way that they form group. It is the most extreme form of acculturation.
relationships, and the way that they resolve Assimilation can happen when a group of people are
conflicts. forced to give up their culture, such as when a minority
 Integrated and at times unstable: Culture is group is conquered by a majority group. It can also
integrated. This means that the different happen when a person chooses to give up their culture,
aspects of culture are interconnected. such as when they convert to a new religion.
However, culture can also be unstable. This is
because culture is constantly changing and
evolving. TANGIBLE AND INTANGIBLE HERITAGE
 Transmitted through socialization: Culture
is transmitted through socialization. This CULTURAL HERITAGE
means that we learn the norms, values, and •The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible
beliefs of our culture from the people around attributes of a group or society that are inherited from
us, such as our parents, our teachers, and our past generation, maintained in the present and
friends. bestowed for the benefit of future generations.
 Requires language and other forms of
communication: Culture requires language •TANGIBLE HERITAGE
and other forms of communication. This is
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
•It includes buildings and historic places, monuments,  Economic change such as the loss of jobs and
artifacts, etc. which are considered worthy of income can lead to the abandonment of
preservation for the future. traditional practices and the loss of intangible
Objects are important to the study of human history. heritage.
Their preservation demonstrates recognition of the  Political change such as the rise of
necessity of the past and of the things that tell its story. authoritarian regimes can also threaten cultural
heritage.
Tangible heritage refers to the physical objects and
places that are inherited from past generations and are
considered worthy of preservation for the future. This LESSON 3: CULTURAL, SOCIAL, POLITICAL
includes buildings and historic places, monuments, AND ECONOMIC SYMBOLS AND PRACTICES
artifacts, and other objects that have cultural or
historical significance. Tangible heritage can be Symbol
threatened by natural disasters, such as earthquakes • an object, word, or action that stands for something
and floods, as well as human activities, such as else, without natural relationship, that is culturally
pollution and development. defined.
• helps people understand the world – such as gestures,
•INTANGIBLE HERITAGE signs, objects, signals, and words.
•It includes oral tradition, performing arts, social • provides clues to understanding experiences.
practices, rituals, festive events, knowledge and
practice concerning nature and the universe and skills Symbols and Symbolism
involved in producing traditional crafts. A symbol is an object, word, or action that stands for
something else, without a natural relationship, that is
Intangible heritage refers to the traditions, knowledge, culturally defined. Symbols help people understand the
and skills that are passed down from generation to world around them by providing clues to
generation. This includes oral traditions, performing understanding experiences. They can also be used to
arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, and communicate ideas, express emotions, and build a
knowledge and practice concerning nature and the sense of community.
universe. Intangible heritage can be threatened by Symbols are all around us. We see them in our
social change, economic change, political change, and everyday lives, in the media, and in art and literature.
natural disasters. Some common symbols include:
 The cross is a symbol of Christianity.
 The dove is a symbol of peace.
 The heart is a symbol of love.
THREATS  The red rose is a symbol of romantic love.
•Natural disaster  The American flag is a symbol of the United
•Human Activity States.
•Social Change Symbols can have multiple meanings, and their
•Economic Change meaning can vary depending on the context in which
•Political Change they are used. For example, the color white can
symbolize purity, innocence, and peace. However, it
Threats to cultural heritage can come from natural can also symbolize death and mourning in some
disasters, human activity, social change, economic cultures.
change, and political change. Symbols can be used for a variety of purposes. They
 Natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, can be used to:
and fires can damage or destroy tangible  Communicate ideas: Symbols can be used to
heritage. communicate complex ideas in a concise and
 Human activity such as pollution, visually appealing way. For example, the
development, and war can also damage or recycling symbol is a simple way to
destroy tangible and intangible heritage. communicate the idea of recycling.
 Social change such as the loss of traditional  Express emotions: Symbols can be used to
languages and practices can also threaten express emotions that are difficult to put into
intangible heritage. Social change such as words. For example, the heart is a symbol of
migration, urbanization, and globalization can love and affection.
also lead to the loss of cultural heritage.
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
 Build a sense of community: Symbols can be can be used to teach people about the religions they
used to create a sense of shared identity and represent.
belonging. For example, the American flag is a Symbols can also be used to spread ideologies and
symbol of national unity. beliefs. For example, the hammer and sickle is a
Symbols can also be used to manipulate people and symbol of communism, and the Nazi swastika is a
spread propaganda. For example, the Nazi regime used symbol of fascism. These symbols can be used to
symbols such as the swastika and the goose-step salute promote these ideologies and attract new followers.
to promote its ideology and create a sense of fear and
awe among its followers. 2. Symbols are also used to preserve traditions or
It is important to be aware of the different types of beliefs of a certain group of people.
symbols and their meanings in order to better Symbols can be used to keep the traditions and beliefs
understand the world around us. We should also be of a group alive. For example, religious symbols can
critical of the symbols that we are exposed to and be be used to remind people of their faith. National
aware of how they are being used to influence us. symbols can be used to remind people of their
Discussion country's history and culture.
Symbols are a powerful tool that can be used for a 3. All symbols contain the “face” and “hidden” values,
variety of purposes. They can be used to communicate, the hidden value, in a functional perspective, holds
express, and build. However, they can also be used to greater meaning and importance than the face value.
manipulate and spread propaganda.
It is important to be aware of the different types of Symbols can have both face and hidden values. The
symbols and their meanings in order to better face value is the literal meaning of the symbol. The
understand the world around us. We should also be hidden value is the deeper meaning of the symbol.
critical of the symbols that we are exposed to and be For example, the face value of the American flag is a
aware of how they are being used to influence us. piece of cloth with red, white, and blue stripes and
Here are some additional thoughts on symbols and stars. The hidden value of the American flag is
symbolism: freedom, democracy, and patriotism.
 Symbols can be used to create a sense of The hidden value of a symbol is often more important
shared identity and belonging. For example, than the face value. This is because the hidden value is
religious symbols can be used to unite what gives the symbol its meaning and power.
members of a particular faith. Sports team
symbols can be used to unite fans of a 4. Symbols and symbolism have been used to create
particular team. National symbols can be used movements, spread ideas, and share advocacies that
to unite citizens of a particular country. surpasses time and distance.
 Symbols can be used to challenge the status
quo. For example, symbols associated with Symbols and symbolism can be used to create
social movements, such as the Black Lives powerful movements and spread ideas across the
Matter movement and the LGBTQ+ rights world. For example, the dove is a symbol of peace, and
movement, can be used to challenge the rainbow flag is a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride. These
oppression and inequality. symbols have been used to create movements and
 Symbols can be used to inspire and motivate spread awareness of important issues.
people. For example, the Olympic rings are a Symbols can also be used to share advocacies that
symbol of international cooperation and transcend time and distance. For example, the symbol
competition. The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of the Olympic rings is used to promote international
of freedom and hope. cooperation and competition. The symbol of the Red
Cross is used to promote humanitarian aid.
Functions of Symbols and Symbolism
Discussion
1. Social symbols are used to transfer culture, Symbols and symbolism play an important role in our
ideologies, or beliefs from group to another group of lives and in our society. They can be used to
people. communicate, educate, preserve, inspire, and motivate.
It is important to be aware of the different types of
Symbols can be used to teach people about the values, symbols and their meanings in order to better
beliefs, and traditions of a particular culture. For understand the world around us. We should also be
example, the cross is a symbol of Christianity, and the critical of the symbols that we are exposed to and be
Star of David is a symbol of Judaism. These symbols aware of how they are being used to influence us.
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
Here are some additional thoughts on the functions of symbols are used to communicate one's social status or
symbols and symbolism: affiliation to others.
 Symbols can be used to create a sense of unity Examples of social symbols include:
and solidarity. For example, national symbols  A wedding ring is a social symbol of marriage.
can be used to unite citizens of a particular  A military uniform is a social symbol of
country. Sports team symbols can be used to military service.
unite fans of a particular team.  A gang tattoo is a social symbol of gang
 Symbols can be used to express emotions and membership.
values. For example, the heart is a symbol of  A designer handbag is a social symbol of
love, and the dove is a symbol of peace. wealth and status.
 Symbols can be used to challenge the status 3. Political Symbols
quo and promote social change. For example, Political symbols are symbols that are used to
the Black Lives Matter symbol and the represent political parties, ideologies, or movements.
LGBTQ+ pride flag are used to challenge They can be objects, words, actions, or even colors.
oppression and inequality. Political symbols are used to communicate one's
political beliefs and affiliations to others.
Types of Symbols Examples of political symbols include:
1. Cultural Symbols  The donkey is a political symbol of the
• manifestation that signifies ideology of a particular Democratic Party in the United States.
culture that has meaning within that culture.  The elephant is a political symbol of the
2. Social symbols Republican Party in the United States.
• relating to human societies and its modes of  The hammer and sickle is a political symbol of
organization (i.e., social classes, social problems, communism.
social issues, etc.)  The Nazi swastika is a political symbol of
3. Political symbols fascism.
• used to represent a political standpoint; seen in 4. Economic Symbols
various media and forms such as banners, flag, motto, Economic symbols are symbols that are used to
etc. represent economic concepts, such as currency,
4. Economic symbols markets, and labor. They can be objects, words,
• used in production, distribution, and consumption of actions, or even mathematical symbols. Economic
goods and services like currency, market, labor, symbols are used to communicate economic ideas and
demands and other economic activities. information to others.
Example of Cultural Symbols and Practices Examples of economic symbols include:
1. Objects, figures, sounds and colors  The dollar sign ($) is a symbol of the US
2. Facial expressions, word interpretations, or gestures dollar currency.
such as handshakes and hand signals, instead of  The stock market ticker is a symbol of the
symbols and signs stock market.
 The unemployment rate is a symbol of the
1. Cultural Symbols economic health of a country.
Cultural symbols are symbols that have meaning  The supply and demand curves are symbols of
within a particular culture. They can be objects, words, economic concepts.
actions, or even colors. Cultural symbols are used to Discussion
represent the values, beliefs, and traditions of a culture. Symbols can be used for a variety of purposes,
Examples of cultural symbols include: including to communicate, educate, preserve, inspire,
 The cross is a cultural symbol of Christianity. and motivate. Symbols can also be used to create a
 The dove is a cultural symbol of peace. sense of unity, express emotions, and challenge the
 The heart is a cultural symbol of love. status quo.
 The red rose is a cultural symbol of romantic It is important to be aware of the different types of
love. symbols and their meanings in order to better
 The American flag is a cultural symbol of the understand the world around us. We should also be
United States. critical of the symbols that we are exposed to and be
2. Social Symbols aware of how they are being used to influence us.
Social symbols are symbols that are used to represent Here are some additional thoughts on the types of
social groups, classes, or identities. They can be symbols:
objects, words, actions, or even clothing. Social
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
 Symbols can be used to create a sense of  Child-rearing practices, such as disciplining
shared identity and belonging. For example, children in a certain way or teaching them
religious symbols can be used to unite about their culture
members of a particular faith. Sports team Religious Symbol
symbols can be used to unite fans of a A religious symbol is an iconic representation intended
particular team. National symbols can be used to represent a specific religion, or a specific concept
to unite citizens of a particular country. within a given religion. Religious symbols can be
 Symbols can be used to challenge the status objects, words, actions, or even colors.
quo and promote social change. For example, Religious symbols are important because they help to
the Black Lives Matter symbol and the represent and communicate the beliefs and values of a
LGBTQ+ pride flag are used to challenge particular religion. They can also be used to create a
oppression and inequality. sense of unity and belonging for members of the
 Symbols can be used to inspire and motivate religion.
people. For example, the Olympic rings are a Some examples of religious symbols include:
symbol of international cooperation and  The cross is a religious symbol of Christianity.
competition. The Statue of Liberty is a symbol  The Star of David is a religious symbol of
of freedom and hope. Judaism.
 The crescent moon and star are religious
Cultural Practices symbols of Islam.
• are the manifestation of a culture or subculture,  The lotus flower is a religious symbol of
especially concerning the traditional and customary Hinduism and Buddhism.
practices of a particular ethnic or other cultural group.  The Om symbol is a religious symbol of
Examples: religious and spiritual, medical treatment, Hinduism.
forms of artistic expressions, culinary, housing and Discussion
child-rearing practices. Cultural practices and religious symbols are both
Religious symbol important parts of human life. They help to shape our
• is an iconic representation intended to represent a identities, our values, and our worldview.
specific religion, or a specific concept within a given It is important to be respectful of all cultural practices
religion. and religious symbols, even if we do not share the
same beliefs. We should also be open to learning about
different cultures and religions so that we can better
understand the world around us.
Here are some additional thoughts on cultural practices
Cultural Practices and religious symbols:
Cultural practices are the traditional and customary  Cultural practices and religious symbols can
practices of a particular ethnic or other cultural group. be a source of comfort and strength for people.
They can be religious and spiritual, medical treatment, They can provide a sense of belonging and
forms of artistic expressions, culinary, housing, and community.
child-rearing practices.  Cultural practices and religious symbols can
Cultural practices are important because they help to also be a source of conflict and division.
preserve and transmit the culture from one generation People may disagree about the meaning and
to the next. They also provide a sense of identity and importance of certain practices and symbols.
belonging for members of the culture.  It is important to be sensitive to the cultural
Some examples of cultural practices include: practices and religious symbols of others. We
 Religious practices, such as attending church should avoid making assumptions or
services, praying, and celebrating religious judgments about people based on their
holidays practices and symbols.
 Medical practices, such as using traditional
remedies or visiting traditional healers
 Artistic expressions, such as dance, music, and Some Examples of Cultural Practices in the
storytelling Philippines
 Culinary practices, such as eating traditional
foods and preparing them in traditional ways 1. Traditional Medical Practices
 Housing practices, such as living in extended • belief in “albularyo”, herbal medicines, alternative
families or building houses in a certain style medicines, and other home remedies.
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
Filipinos have a rich tradition of traditional medicine, Catholics, but there are also significant Muslim and
which includes the use of herbal remedies, alternative Protestant minorities.
medicines, and other home remedies. Some traditional Some examples of religious/spiritual practices in the
Filipino healers, known as albularyos, have passed Philippines include:
down their knowledge and skills for generations.  Obando Fertility Festival: A Catholic festival
Traditional medicine in the Philippines is a diverse that is held annually in Obando, Bulacan. The
system of healing practices that have been passed festival is known for its fertility rites, which
down for generations. It is based on the belief that the are performed by couples who are trying to
body is a holistic system and that healing should focus conceive.
on restoring balance to the body, mind, and spirit.  Panaad sa Camiguin: An annual pilgrimage to
the Camiguin Island where people climb
Some examples of traditional Filipino medical Mount Vulcan to fulfill their vows or to pray
practices include: for miracles.
 Hilot: A traditional massage therapy that is  Feast of the Black Nazarene: An annual
used to treat a variety of ailments, such as Catholic festival that is held in Manila. The
muscle pain, headaches, and digestive festival attracts millions of devotees who come
problems. to venerate the Black Nazarene, a statue of
 Pasma: A traditional healing method that uses Jesus Christ that is believed to have
heat and suction to relieve pain and miraculous powers.
inflammation.
 Taws: A type of acupuncture that uses water 3. Culinary Practices
buffalo horns to apply pressure to specific • Rice 3 meals a day, Adobo, Sinigang, street foods,
points on the body. Balut, rice cakes, etc.
 Herbal remedies: A wide variety of herbs are Filipino cuisine is a diverse and flavorful mix of
used in traditional Filipino medicine to treat a influences from Malay, Chinese, Spanish, and
variety of illnesses. Some of the most popular American cultures. Rice is the staple food of the
herbs include lagundi (vitex negundo), Philippines, and it is typically eaten at all three meals
sambong (blumea balsamifera), and tawa-tawa of the day. Other popular Filipino dishes include
(eugenia cumini). adobo, sinigang, and street foods such as balut and rice
Some common traditional medical practices in the cakes.
Philippines include:
 Albularyo: A traditional healer who uses a  Adobo: A dish of chicken or pork marinated in
variety of methods, including herbal remedies, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and black
massage, and spiritual healing, to treat illness. peppercorns.
 Herbal medicines: There are hundreds of  Sinigang: A sour soup made with tamarind,
different plants and herbs that are used in meat or seafood, and vegetables.
traditional Filipino medicine. Some of the  Street food: There are many different types of
most common herbal medicines include street food available in the Philippines,
ginger, garlic, turmeric, and guava leaves. including grilled meats, fish balls, and kwek-
 Alternative medicines: Other alternative kwek (deep-fried quail eggs).
medicines that are popular in the Philippines  Balut: A fertilized duck egg that is boiled and
include acupuncture, cupping, and reflexology. eaten in the shell.
 Home remedies: There are also many simple  Rice cakes: There are many different types of
home remedies that are used in the Philippines rice cakes in the Philippines, including puto
to treat common ailments. For example, a (steamed rice cakes), bibingka (coconut rice
popular home remedy for a cough is to drink a cake), and suman (rice cake wrapped in
warm cup of ginger tea. banana leaves).
4. Child- rearing Practices- respectful (used of the
words mano, po at opo ), obedience to parents and
2. Religious/Spiritual Practices elders, no talking back to elders, removing footwear
• Obando Festival in Bulacan for fertility, Panaad sa before entering the house, family mealtime,
Camiguin as act of penance and pilgrim. Feast of the ninong/ninang, ate/kuya, punishment using
Black Nazarene in Manila, etc. belt/tsinelas.
Religious/spiritual practices are an important part of
Filipino culture. The majority of Filipinos are
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
Filipino child-rearing practices are based on respect for • Political symbols are usually used to embody an
elders and obedience to authority. Children are taught ideology, an advocacy, or
to be respectful and helpful, and to avoid talking back • A group of people with same principles.
to their parents and elders. • Political practices are common things that are done
Some examples of Filipino child-rearing practices within a state or country.
include: • It is related to the practices done in the
 Mano: A traditional Filipino gesture of respect administration, distribution and attainment of power,
that involves raising the back of the elder's bureaucratic composition, etc.
hand to one's forehead.
 Po and opo: Polite words that are used when
addressing elders. Social Symbols and Practices
 Obedience to parents and elders: Children are Social symbols and practices are the visible and
taught to obey their parents and elders without external denotations of one's social position, or
question. indicators of one's social or economic status. They can
 No talking back to elders: Children are taught be seen in clothing and possessions, societal
to be respectful and to avoid talking back to recognition, material possessions, and other recognized
their elders. symbols used worldwide.
 Removing footwear before entering the house: Some examples of social symbols and practices
This is a sign of respect for the home and its include:
occupants.  Wearing expensive clothes and jewelry
 Family mealtime: Family mealtime is an  Driving a luxury car
important time for Filipino families to bond  Living in a wealthy neighborhood
and communicate.  Having a high-paying job
 Ninong/ninang: Ninong and ninang are  Attending prestigious schools
godparents who play an important role in the  Belonging to exclusive social clubs
lives of their godchildren. Social symbols and practices can be used to establish
 Ate/kuya: Ate and kuya are older siblings who one's social status and to gain access to certain social
are respected and obeyed by their younger groups and resources. They can also be used to
siblings. distinguish oneself from others and to signal one's
 Punishment using belt/tsinelas: Corporal membership in a particular social class.
punishment is still commonly used in the Status Symbol
Philippines to discipline children. A status symbol is an object, word, or action that is
used to indicate one's social or economic status. Status
Discussion symbols can be seen in clothing and possessions,
Cultural practices are an important part of Filipino societal recognition, material possessions, and other
culture. They help to shape the values, beliefs, and recognized symbols used worldwide.
traditions of the Filipino people. Cultural practices also Some examples of status symbols include:
play an important role in creating a sense of  A luxury car
community and belonging.  A designer handbag
 A Rolex watch
Social Symbols and Practices  A Harvard degree
• It is a visible, external denotation of one’s social  A job at a prestigious company
position, indicator of one’s social or economic status.  A membership in an exclusive social club
Status symbols can be used to communicate one's
Status Symbol social status to others and to gain access to certain
• relates to how individuals and groups interact and social groups and resources. They can also be used to
interpret various cultural symbols. It can be seen in distinguish oneself from others and to signal one's
clothing and possessions, societal recognition, material membership in a particular social class.
possessions and other recognized symbols used Political Symbols and Practices
worldwide such as white dove for peace, red heart for Political symbols and practices are the artifacts and
love, etc. objectifications of different political meanings,
especially those related to power. Political symbols are
Political Symbols and Practices usually used to embody an ideology, an advocacy, or a
• The artifacts or objectifications of different political group of people with the same principles.
meanings especially related to power. Some examples of political symbols include:
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
 The American flag - Political dynasties in the Philippines are families that
 The Democratic donkey have held political office for multiple generations.
 The Republican elephant They are often wealthy and influential families that
 The rainbow flag have a strong hold on power in their local
 The hammer and sickle communities. Political dynasties can be problematic
 The Nazi swastika because they can lead to corruption and nepotism.
Political practices are the common things that are done - Political dynasties are the concentration,
within a state or country. They are related to the consolidation, or perpetuation of public office and
practices done in the administration, distribution, and political power by persons related to one another.
attainment of power, bureaucratic composition, etc. Political dynasties are common in the Philippines, and
Some examples of political practices include: they have been criticized for promoting corruption and
 Voting nepotism.
 Running for office Some examples of political dynasties in the Philippines
 Protesting include:
 Lobbying  The Marcos family
 Volunteering for political campaigns  The Aquino family
Political symbols and practices can be used to  The Estrada family
communicate one's political beliefs to others and to  The Duterte family
build a sense of community and belonging among  The Villar family
those who share the same beliefs. They can also be
used to challenge the status quo and to promote social • Filipino Clans
change. -Filipino clans are groups of people who are related to
Discussion each other by blood or marriage. Clans play an
Social symbols and practices, status symbols, and important role in Filipino society, and they can be a
political symbols and practices are all important parts source of support and power for their members.
of human society. They can be used to communicate, -Clans can also be used to consolidate political power
establish, and maintain social status, to build and to advance the interests of clan members. For
community and belonging, and to challenge the status example, it is common for clan members to support
quo. each other's political campaigns and to help each other
It is important to be aware of the different types of get jobs in government.
symbols and practices and how they are used. We
should also be critical of the messages that they • Celebrities turned Politicians.
convey and the ways in which they can be used to Celebrities in the Philippines often use their fame and
influence us. popularity to run for political office. Celebrities can be
Here are some additional thoughts on social symbols effective politicians because they are well-known and
and practices, status symbols, and political symbols trusted by the public. However, they may also lack the
and practices: experience and skills necessary to be effective
 Social symbols and practices can be used to politicians.
create and maintain social hierarchies. They Some examples of celebrities who have turned to
can also be used to exclude and marginalize politics in the Philippines include:
certain groups of people.  Willie Revillame
 Status symbols can be used to gain access to  Lito Atienza
power and privilege. They can also be used to  Vilma Santos
signal one's membership in a particular social  Manny Pacquiao
group.  Robin Padilla
 Political symbols and practices can be used to
promote democracy and participation. They • Palakasan system
can also be used to spread propaganda and -refers to a system of getting an advantage when
manipulate people. having or knowing someone powerful from the office
that can recommend you. This usually happens within
Political Practices in the Philippines government offices.
• Political Dynasties - The palakasan system is a system of getting an
-it is the concentration, consolidation or perpetuation advantage when having or knowing someone powerful
of public office and political power by persons related from the office that can recommend you. This usually
to one another. happens within government offices.
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
-The palakasan system is often seen as a form of inequality. This makes it difficult to develop
corruption, and it can lead to unqualified people being and implement good governance practices.
appointed to positions of power.
Economic Symbols
• Trapo (Traditional Politics ) • This represents economic standpoint. It can be seen
-Trapo is a Filipino term for traditional politics. Trapo in various media such as Stock Exchange, Money, and
politicians are often seen as being out of touch with the Currency, Gold and Petroleum, Life Insurance,
needs of the people and as being more interested in Banking, etc. Philippine Economic Practices
enriching themselves than in serving the public. • In terms of savings, one of the traditional way of
Trapo politicians are often associated with corruption, saving money in Filipino is using “alkansya”. It is
nepotism, and patronage. where they Filipino use bamboo as a vault to their
money until it becomes full and ready to be withdrawn
• Catholic Church Influence by its owner.
- The Catholic Church is a powerful institution in the • Another way of economic practice of Filipino is
Philippines, and it has a significant influence on “paluwagan”. It is a group savings where group of
politics. The Church has often been critical of people agrees to give money to a money manager who
government policies that it sees as being immoral or is also part of this group and manages the money. The
harmful to the Filipino people. money will cycle throughout the group.
The Church has also been known to endorse candidates
for public office. Economic Symbols
Economic symbols are used to represent economic
• Power Revolt concepts, such as currency, markets, and labor. They
- A power revolt is a popular uprising against a can be objects, words, actions, or even mathematical
government that is seen as being corrupt or tyrannical. symbols. Economic symbols are used to communicate
Power revolts have happened several times in the economic ideas and information to others.
history of the Philippines. Some examples of economic symbols include:
-One of the most famous power revolts in the  The dollar sign ($) is a symbol of the US
Philippines was the People Power Revolution of 1986, dollar currency.
which toppled the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos.  The stock market ticker is a symbol of the
stock market.
Discussion  The unemployment rate is a symbol of the
The political practices in the Philippines are complex economic health of a country.
and varied. Some of these practices, such as political  The supply and demand curves are symbols of
dynasties and the palakasan system, are seen as economic concepts.
problematic. Other practices, such as celebrities turned Philippine Economic Practices
politicians and the Catholic Church influence, can be  Alkansya
seen as both positive and negative. An alkansya is a traditional Filipino piggy bank made
It is important to understand the different political of clay or bamboo. It is used to save money, usually in
practices in the Philippines in order to be an informed coins. Alkansyas are often decorated with colorful
citizen. We should also be critical of the ways in which designs and are a popular gift for children.
these practices are used and the impact that they have  Paluwagan
on society. Paluwagan is a group savings scheme that is popular in
Here are some additional thoughts on political the Philippines. A group of people agree to contribute a
practices in the Philippines: certain amount of money each month to a common
 The political practices in the Philippines are a pool. The money is then managed by a group member,
reflection of the country's history and culture. who loans it out to other members at a low interest
The Philippines has a long history of rate. Paluwagan is a way for people to save money and
colonialism and authoritarian rule. This has led access small loans without having to go through a
to a political culture that is characterized by bank.
patronage politics and a lack of trust in Discussion
government institutions. Economic symbols and economic practices are both
 The political practices in the Philippines are important parts of the Philippine economy. Economic
also influenced by the country's economic symbols help to communicate economic ideas and
development. The Philippines is a developing information to others. Economic practices help to
country with a high level of poverty and support economic activity and growth.
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
It is important to be aware of the different economic Symbols and symbolism are also important because
symbols and economic practices that exist in the they can be used to challenge the status quo and
Philippines. This can help us to better understand the promote social change. For example, the Black Lives
country's economy and how to make a difference. Matter symbol has been used to challenge racism and
Here are some additional thoughts on economic police brutality.
symbols and economic practices in the Philippines: Overall, symbols and symbolism are an important part
 Economic symbols can be used to promote of human culture and communication. They allow us to
economic growth and development. For communicate complex ideas and emotions, create a
example, the government can use economic sense of unity and belonging, and preserve values.
symbols to attract foreign investment and In addition to the above, here are some other thoughts
tourism. on the significance of symbols and symbolism:
 Economic practices can be used to reduce  Symbols can be used to express our identity
poverty and inequality. For example, the and individuality. For example, the clothes we
government can provide microfinance loans to wear, the music we listen to, and the books we
help poor people start businesses. read can all be seen as symbols of our personal
 It is important to ensure that economic identity.
symbols and economic practices are inclusive  Symbols can also be used to create a sense of
and accessible to everyone. For example, the shared identity and community. For example,
government should make sure that everyone religious symbols can unite members of a
has access to financial services. particular faith, and sports team symbols can
unite fans of a particular team.
 Symbols can be used to evoke emotions and
Significance of Symbols and Symbolism inspire action. For example, the national
• As rational thinkers, we have been making and giving anthem can evoke a sense of patriotism, and
meaning to symbols for a long time. Symbols have the Olympic rings can inspire athletes to
been part of our lives and growth as humankind. The achieve excellence.
usage of symbols and symbolism have given mankind Symbols and symbolism are a powerful tool that can
an avenue to communicate with different groups of be used for a variety of purposes. It is important to be
people, influence others of different ideologies, and aware of the different types of symbols and their
preserve values that were transferred from generations meanings so that we can better understand the world
to generations. around us and the people in it.

Significance of Symbols and Symbolism LESSON 4: SOCIAL ORGANIZATION SOCIAL

Symbols and symbolism are significant because they INSTITUTION
allow us to communicate complex ideas and emotions
in a concise and powerful way. Symbols can also be How a Society is Organized
used to create a sense of unity and belonging among • Society is a social system that is composed of people
people who share the same beliefs and values. assigned to perform a definite task and function in a
Here are some specific examples of the significance of social system called social institution.
symbols and symbolism: • People tends to form a group because of their social
 Communication: Symbols can be used to personalities and maybe because they badly need it.
communicate complex ideas and emotions in a But maybe in some cases both.
concise and powerful way. For example, a red -We live in groups to meet our certain social needs.
heart is a symbol of love, and a white dove is a -Our experience influences us to form groups with or
symbol of peace. without cognizant planning.
 Unity and belonging: Symbols can be used to -Basic to group formation is social interaction
create a sense of unity and belonging among
people who share the same beliefs and values. How a Society is Organized
For example, the American flag is a symbol of A society is a group of people who live together in a
unity for all Americans. particular area and share a common culture. Societies
 Preservation of values: Symbols can be used to are organized into different groups, such as families,
preserve values that were transferred from schools, businesses, and governments. These groups
generations to generations. For example, the have different roles and responsibilities, and they work
cross is a symbol of Christianity that has been together to meet the needs of the society as a whole.
passed down for centuries.
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
There are many different ways to organize a society.  Education
Some societies are organized hierarchically, with a  Religion
clear social hierarchy and division of labor. Other  Government
societies are more egalitarian, with less of a social  The economy
hierarchy and more shared power and responsibility.  The media
Here are some of the key factors that influence how a Discussion
society is organized: The way a society is organized has a significant impact
 Culture: Culture is a set of shared beliefs, on the lives of its members. Societies that are
values, and practices that shape how people organized in a way that promotes equality and
live and interact. Culture plays a major role in cooperation tend to be more prosperous and stable.
determining how a society is organized, as it Societies that are organized in a way that promotes
influences the roles and responsibilities of inequality and conflict tend to be less prosperous and
different groups and individuals. stable.
 History: The history of a society also It is important to be aware of the different ways that
influences its organization. For example, a societies can be organized and to understand the
society that has experienced war or advantages and disadvantages of each approach. By
colonialism may be more militaristic or understanding how societies are organized, we can
authoritarian. better understand the world around us and the people
 Economy: The economy of a society also in it.
plays a role in its organization. For example, a Here are some additional thoughts on how a society is
society with a strong market economy may be organized:
more individualistic and competitive.  Societies are not static. They are constantly
 Geography: The geography of a society can changing and evolving in response to new
also influence its organization. For example, a challenges and opportunities.
society that lives in a harsh environment may  The organization of a society is not always fair
be more collectivist and cooperative. or just. Some groups may have more power
Social Groups and privilege than others.
Social groups are groups of people who interact with  It is important to work to create a society that
each other and share a common identity or purpose. is organized in a way that promotes equality
Social groups can be formal or informal, and they can and justice for all.
be based on a variety of factors, such as age, gender,
ethnicity, religion, or occupation.
Social groups play an important role in society. They What is a Group?
provide people with a sense of belonging, support, and • Constituted by two or more persons who have
identity. Social groups also help to promote something in common.
cooperation and social cohesion. • Interacting together
Here are some examples of social groups: • It may be temporary
 Families • Guided by a set of norms
 Schools A group is a collection of two or more people who
 Businesses have something in common, interact together, and may
 Governments be temporary or guided by a set of norms.
 Religious groups Groups can be formal or informal, and they can be
 Sports teams based on a variety of factors, such as age, gender,
 Social clubs ethnicity, religion, occupation, or shared interests.
 Neighborhood associations Formal groups are typically created with a specific
 Online communities purpose in mind, such as a work team, a school class,
Social Institutions or a religious congregation. Formal groups often have
Social institutions are organized systems of social rules a hierarchy and a set of rules and procedures that
and practices that govern behavior in a society. Social govern their behavior.
institutions play an important role in society by Informal groups are typically formed naturally, based
providing stability and order, and by promoting social on shared interests or experiences. Informal groups
values and norms. may not have a specific purpose or hierarchy, but they
There are many different types of social institutions, can still play an important role in people's lives.
including: Norms are the shared rules and expectations that guide
 The family behavior within a group. Norms can be explicit or
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
implicit, and they can be enforced through formal or
informal means. 1. Two or more people: A group must have at
Here are some of the key characteristics of a group: least two people.
 Size: Groups can range in size from two 2. Interaction: The members of the group must
people to hundreds or even thousands of interact with each other. This may be face-to-
people. face, over the phone, or online.
 Interaction: Groups are characterized by 3. Shared identity or purpose: The members of
interaction among members. Members of a the group must have a shared identity or
group communicate with each other and share purpose. This may be based on a common
information, ideas, and resources. goal, values, or interests.
 Identity: Groups have a shared identity. This The third requirement, that the members of the group
may be based on a common goal, values, or must be together physically, is not strictly necessary. It
interests. is possible to have a group without the members being
 Purpose: Groups have a purpose. This may be physically together. For example, an online community
to achieve a common goal, to socialize, or to can be considered a group, even though the members
provide support for its members. may never meet in person.
 Norms: Groups have norms, which are shared However, physical proximity can make it easier for
rules and expectations that govern behavior group members to interact and develop a shared
within the group. identity or purpose. It is also easier to build trust and
rapport when people are able to interact face-to-face.
Overall, the three most important requirements for a
Examples of groups: group are two or more people, interaction, and a shared
 Families identity or purpose.
 Friends Here are some examples of groups that do not meet the
 Work teams third requirement of physical proximity:
 School classes  Online communities
 Religious congregations  Social media groups
 Sports teams  Pen pal groups
 Social clubs  Long-distance relationships
 Online communities  Virtual teams
These groups are still considered to be groups because
Discussion they meet the other two requirements. The members of
Groups are an important part of the human experience. these groups interact with each other and share a
They provide us with a sense of belonging, support, common identity or purpose.
and identity. Groups can also help us to achieve our It is important to note that groups can be formal or
goals and to make a difference in the world. informal. Formal groups are typically organized and
However, groups can also be negative forces in our have specific rules and procedures. Informal groups
lives. Groups can be used to promote discrimination, are less structured and have more flexible rules.
violence, and other harmful behaviors. It is important Both formal and informal groups can be important for
to be aware of the potential negative consequences of individuals and society. Formal groups can provide
groups and to be critical of the groups that we join. structure and support, while informal groups can
Here are some additional thoughts on groups: provide companionship and a sense of belonging.
 Groups can be a source of both positive and
negative social influence.
 Groups can be used to promote social change Social Organization
and to create a more just and equitable society. • is a concept that social scientists have developed for
 It is important to be aware of the different the scientific study of society, culture, and personality.
types of groups and to choose to join groups • The concept “organization” used by sociologist:
that are aligned with our values and goals. -To stand for a relationship among people
-As a type of a particular social system called formal
3 Requirements for A Group organization
1. There must be two or more people. • is a process of bringing ORDER and significance into
2. There must be Interaction human social life. It has its roots in social interaction
3. The member of the group must be together • An established pattern of relationship
physically.
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
Social organization is a concept that social scientists Social organization is a complex and multifaceted
have developed for the scientific study of society, phenomenon. It is influenced by a variety of factors,
culture, and personality. It refers to the way that people including culture, history, economy, and geography.
in a society are patterned, organized, and Social organization can also be changed over time in
interconnected. Social organization is essential for the response to new challenges and opportunities.
functioning of any society, as it allows people to It is important to study social organization in order to
cooperate and work together to achieve common goals. understand how societies function and how to promote
Characteristics of social organization social justice and equality. Social organization can also
Social organization is characterized by a number of be used to promote positive social change.
different features, including: Here are some additional thoughts on social
 Structure: Social organization has a structure, organization:
which refers to the way that different groups  Social organization is not always fair or just.
and individuals are related to each other. Some groups may have more power and
 Norms: Social organization is governed by privilege than others.
norms, which are shared rules and  It is important to work to create a society
expectations that guide behavior. where all groups are treated with respect and
 Roles: Social organization is based on roles, dignity.
which are sets of expectations for behavior  Social organization can be used to promote
that are associated with particular positions in both positive and negative social change. It is
a social group. important to be critical of the social
 Status: Social organization is based on status, organizations we participate in and to hold
which is the relative social standing of them accountable for their actions.
individuals and groups in a society.
 Power: Social organization is based on power,
which is the ability to influence the behavior Social organization is a pattern of relationships
of others. between and among individuals and social groups. It is
Types of social organization a process of bringing order and significance into
There are many different types of social organization, human social life. Social organization has its roots in
both formal and informal. Formal organizations are social interaction and is an established pattern of
typically characterized by a clear structure, hierarchy, relationships.
and set of rules. Informal organizations are less Social scientists use the concept of social organization
structured and have more flexible rules. to study society, culture, and personality. They
Some examples of formal organizations include: examine how people are organized into different
 Governments groups and how these groups interact with each other.
 Businesses They also study how social organization influences the
 Schools behavior of individuals and groups.
 Religious organizations Sociologists use the concept of social organization to
 Non-profit organizations stand for a relationship among people and as a type of
Some examples of informal organizations include: a particular social system called formal organization.
 Families Formal organizations are characterized by a clear
 Peer groups hierarchy, division of labor, and rules and procedures.
 Neighborhood associations Examples of formal organizations include businesses,
 Sports teams governments, and schools.
 Social clubs Social organization is important because it provides
Significance of social organization stability and order to society. It also helps to promote
Social organization is significant because it allows cooperation and coordination among group members.
people to cooperate and work together to achieve Social organization can also help to meet the needs of
common goals. Social organization also provides a individuals and groups. For example, families provide
sense of belonging and identity for individuals. support and socialization for their members.
Social organization is also important for the Social organization is not static. It changes and evolves
maintenance of social order and stability. Social norms over time. This is because society is constantly
and roles help to regulate behavior and prevent changing and evolving. New groups form and old
conflict. Social organization also provides a framework groups dissolve. New technologies and social
for resolving disputes and enforcing social order. movements also contribute to changes in social
Discussion organization.
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
It is important to be aware of the different social
Social Structure structures that exist and to understand the advantages
• refers to the independent network of roles and the and disadvantages of each approach. By understanding
hierarchy of statuses which define the reciprocal social structure, we can better understand the world
expectation and the power arrangement of the around us and the people in it.
members of the social unit guided by norms. Here are some additional thoughts on social structure:
 Social structure can be used to promote
equality and justice, or it can be used to
Social structure is a system of patterned social maintain inequality and oppression.
arrangements in society that are both emergent from  It is important to work to create a social
and determinant of the actions of individuals. It is the structure that is fair and just for all.
underlying order of society, which consists of the  We can use our knowledge of social structure
different roles, statuses, and groups that people occupy. to challenge injustice and create a better world.
Social structure provides a framework for social
interaction and shapes the way that people behave.
Roles are the expected behaviors that are associated Social structure is the patterned arrangement of social
with a particular status. For example, the role of a institutions and relationships within a society. It is the
student is to attend classes, study, and complete framework that governs how people interact with each
assignments. The role of a teacher is to instruct other and with the social world around them.
students and grade their work. Social structure is made up of a number of different
Statuses are the positions that people hold in society. components, including:
Statuses can be based on a variety of factors, such as  Social institutions: Social institutions are the
age, gender, race, ethnicity, social class, and basic building blocks of social structure. They
occupation. For example, the status of a student is are organized systems of rules and practices
higher than the status of a young child. The status of a that govern behavior in a society. Examples of
doctor is higher than the status of a nurse. social institutions include the family,
Groups are collections of people who interact with education, religion, government, and the
each other and share a common identity or purpose. economy.
Groups can be formal or informal, and they can be  Social roles: Social roles are the expected
based on a variety of factors. For example, families, behaviors associated with a particular position
schools, and businesses are formal groups. Social clubs in society. Examples of social roles include
and religious groups are examples of informal groups. parent, student, employee, and citizen.
Social structure has a significant impact on the lives of  Social status: Social status is the relative
individuals. The roles and statuses that people occupy position of an individual or group in society. It
influence their access to resources, opportunities, and is determined by a number of factors,
power. Social structure can also influence people's including income, education, occupation, and
values, beliefs, and behaviors. race.
Here are some examples of social structure:  Norms: Norms are the shared rules and
 The family is a basic social unit that provides expectations that govern behavior in a society.
for the socialization of children and the care of They can be formal or informal, and they can
the elderly. be explicit or implicit.
 The education system is a social institution Social structure is important because it provides
that provides for the transmission of stability and order to society. It also helps to promote
knowledge and skills. cooperation and coordination among individuals and
 The economy is a social system that produces groups. Social structure can also help to meet the needs
and distributes goods and services. of individuals and groups. For example, families
 The government is a social institution that provide support and socialization for their members.
maintains order and provides for the common Social structure is not static. It changes and evolves
good. over time. This is because society is constantly
Social structure is not static. It changes and evolves changing and evolving. New groups form and old
over time. This is because society is constantly groups dissolve. New technologies and social
changing and evolving. New technologies and social movements also contribute to changes in social
movements can also contribute to changes in social structure.
structure. Here are some examples of social structure:
 The family
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
 Education social function of schools is to provide a safe and
 Religion supportive environment for children.
 Government Social functions are important because they help to
 The economy ensure that a social system meets the needs of its
 Social class members. For example, the social function of the
 Gender roles family helps to ensure that children are raised and
 Racial and ethnic relations cared for. The social function of the government helps
Social structure can be positive or negative. Positive to ensure that people are safe and have access to
social structure can promote equality, justice, and well- essential services.
being. Negative social structure can promote Here are some examples of social functions:
inequality, conflict, and oppression.  The family:
It is important to be aware of the different types of o Provides for the physical and
social structure and to work to create a society where emotional needs of its members.
social structure is positive and supportive. o Socializes children into society.
Discussion  The government:
Social structure is a complex and multifaceted concept. o Maintains order.
It is important to understand social structure in order to o Provides public goods and services.
understand how society works and how individuals  The education system:
and groups are shaped by their social environment. o Educates children.
Social structure can have a significant impact on o Provides a safe and supportive
people's lives. For example, people who are born into environment for children.
high-status families tend to have more opportunities  The economy:
and better outcomes than people who are born into o Produces goods and services.
low-status families. Social structure can also influence o Provides jobs and income.
people's values, beliefs, and behaviors.  Religion:
It is important to be aware of the ways in which social o Provides moral guidance and support.
structure can shape our lives. We should also work to
o Promotes social cohesion.
create a society where social structure is more
Social functions can change over time as social
equitable and just.
systems evolve. For example, the social function of the
family has changed as more women have entered the
Social Function
workforce. The social function of the government has
• Component of social organization.
also changed as new technologies have emerged.
• It refers to the results of action that occurs in relation
It is important to note that not all social functions are
to a particular structure and includes the results of the
positive. For example, the social function of a criminal
activities of individuals occupying statuses.
gang may be to protect its members from violence, but
this comes at the expense of public safety.
Social function is a component of social organization
Overall, social function is an important concept for
that refers to the results of action that occurs in relation
understanding how social systems work. By
to a particular structure and includes the results of the
understanding social functions, we can better
activities of individuals occupying statuses.
understand the benefits and drawbacks of different
In other words, social functions are the benefits or
social systems, and we can work to create social
contributions that different parts of a social system
systems that are more beneficial to all members of
provide to the system as a whole. For example, the
society.
social function of the family is to provide for the
Discussion
physical and emotional needs of its members, and to
Social function is a complex concept, and there is no
socialize children into society. The social function of
single agreed-upon definition. However, the basic idea
the government is to maintain order and provide public
is that social functions are the benefits or contributions
goods and services.
that different parts of a social system provide to the
Social functions can be both explicit and implicit.
system as a whole.
Explicit social functions are those that are clearly
Social functions can be difficult to identify and
stated and intended. For example, the explicit social
measure, but they are essential for the functioning of
function of a school is to educate children. Implicit
any social system. Without social functions, social
social functions are those that are not explicitly stated
systems would be unable to meet the needs of their
or intended, but that nonetheless contribute to the well-
members and would eventually collapse.
being of the social system. For example, an implicit
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
It is important to note that social functions can be both  Profound and strong
positive and negative. Some social functions, such as communication: Communication in primary
providing for the physical and emotional needs of groups is profound and strong. Members of a
members, are generally considered to be positive. primary group are able to communicate openly
Other social functions, such as maintaining order and honestly with each other.
through coercion, may be considered to be negative.  Personal satisfactions are outmost
Ultimately, the value of a social function depends on important: Personal satisfactions are outmost
the perspective of the observer. For example, a important in primary groups. Members of a
member of a criminal gang may value the social primary group value their relationships with
function of protection that the gang provides, even each other and find meaning and purpose
though this function comes at the expense of public through their participation in the group.
safety.  A person in a primary group cannot be
It is also important to note that social functions can replaced by another person: Members of a
change over time. For example, the social function of primary group are irreplaceable. They have a
the family has changed as more women have entered unique and special bond with each other that
the workforce. The social function of the government cannot be replicated with someone else.
has also changed as new technologies have emerged. Examples of primary groups:
Despite the challenges involved in identifying and  Family
measuring social functions, it is an important concept  Close friends
for understanding how social systems work. By  Religious groups
understanding social functions, we can better  Neighborhood groups
understand the benefits and drawbacks of different  Sports teams
social systems, and we can work to create social  Club members
systems that are more beneficial to all members of Discussion
society. Primary groups play an important role in our lives.
They provide us with love, support, and a sense of
belonging. Primary groups also help us to learn and
Types of Social Group grow as individuals.
A. Primary and Secondary Groups However, primary groups can also be negative. For
1. Primary Group example, primary groups can be used to pressure
• The total personality of the human being is people to conform to certain norms or values. Primary
considered groups can also be used to exclude or marginalize
• The relationships are intimate and face-to-face people who are different.
• Communication is profound and strong Overall, primary groups are an important part of
• Personal satisfactions are outmost important human society. They provide us with many benefits,
• A person in a primary group cannot be replaced by but it is important to be aware of the potential negative
another person aspects of primary groups as well.
• Examples: family and friends Additional thoughts on primary groups:
 Primary groups are often the first social groups
1. Primary Group that we experience. Our family and early
A primary group is a small, intimate group of people friends play a significant role in shaping our
who have close personal relationships with each other. personality and values.
Primary groups are characterized by a high degree of  Primary groups can help us to cope with stress
social interaction, emotional support, and mutual and difficult times. Members of our primary
understanding. Members of a primary group tend to groups can provide us with emotional support
share a common identity and purpose. and practical assistance.
Characteristics of primary groups:  Primary groups can also help us to achieve our
 Total personality: Primary groups consider the goals. Members of our primary groups can
total personality of the human being, including encourage us, motivate us, and provide us with
their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. resources.
 Intimate and face-to-face It is important to nurture our primary relationships. By
relationships: Primary groups are characterized investing time and energy in our primary groups, we
by intimate and face-to-face relationships. can reap many benefits, both personally and socially.
Members of a primary group know each other
well and have a close bond. 2. Secondary Group
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
• This relationship involves a reaction to only a part of  Social clubs
the individuals personality Discussion
• Interaction between the members are business like, Secondary groups play an important role in society.
impersonal, casual They provide a way for people to achieve common
• The composition of the group is heterogeneous, and goals, and they can help to promote social cohesion
membership is numerous and widespread and cooperation. However, secondary groups can also
• This relationship tends to be casual, temporary and be a source of stress and conflict, especially if the
limited in personal involvement goals of the group are not aligned with the individual
• Example: professional association, corporations, co- needs of its members.
workers It is important to be aware of the different types of
social groups and to understand the characteristics of
A secondary group is a group of people who interact each type. This can help us to better understand the
with each other on a regular basis, but their relationships that we have with others and the social
relationships are typically more impersonal and less systems in which we live.
intimate than those in primary groups. Secondary Here are some additional thoughts on secondary
groups are often formed for the purpose of achieving a groups:
specific goal, such as education, work, or leisure.  Secondary groups can be a source of both
Characteristics of Secondary Groups positive and negative experiences.
 Impersonal relationships: The relationships  It is important to be selective about the
between members of a secondary group are secondary groups that we participate in.
typically more impersonal and less intimate  We should strive to create secondary groups
than those in primary groups. Members of a that are supportive and beneficial to all
secondary group may not know each other members.
very well, and they may not share the same
values or beliefs. B. In-Group and Out-Group
 Business-like interactions: The interactions
between members of a secondary group are 1. In-Group
often business-like and goal-oriented. • The group with which the individual identifies
Members of a secondary group may interact • Gives a sense of BELONGING, camaraderie, and a
with each other in order to achieve a common protective attitude toward the other members.
goal, such as completing a work project or • The members are LOYAL to each other, and one may
winning a sporting event. accept responsibility for the others.
 Heterogeneous composition: The composition • They know each other intimately and share common
of a secondary group is often heterogeneous, norms, activities, goals and background.
meaning that the members of the group come • It is simply any group someone belongs to and feels
from different backgrounds and have different emotional attachment to the members.
characteristics. This is because secondary
groups are often formed for the purpose of An in-group is a social group with which an individual
achieving a specific goal, and members are identifies. In-group members tend to view each other
selected based on their abilities and skills, favorably and to feel a sense of belonging,
rather than their personal characteristics. camaraderie, and loyalty to the group. They may also
 Casual and temporary relationships: The develop a protective attitude towards other members of
relationships between members of a secondary the in-group.
group are often casual and temporary. In-groups can be based on a variety of factors, such as
Members of a secondary group may only age, gender, ethnicity, religion, nationality,
interact with each other for a short period of socioeconomic status, or shared interests. For example,
time, such as the duration of a work project or a person's in-group might include their family, friends,
a school semester. schoolmates, co-workers, or members of a sports team
Examples of Secondary Groups or club.
 Professional associations In-group membership can have a number of positive
 Corporations effects on individuals. It can provide them with a sense
 Co-workers of belonging, support, and identity. It can also motivate
 Schools them to achieve and to cooperate with others.
 Sports teams However, in-group membership can also have some
 Religious groups
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
negative effects. It can lead to prejudice and Out-groups can be based on a variety of factors, such
discrimination against out-groups. as age, gender, ethnicity, religion, nationality,
Discussion socioeconomic status, or shared interests. For example,
In-group membership is a natural and important part of a person's out-groups might include members of a rival
human social life. In-groups provide us with a sense of sports team, people of a different religion, or people
belonging, support, and identity. However, it is from a different socioeconomic class.
important to be aware of the potential negative effects Out-group membership can have a number of negative
of in-group membership, such as prejudice and effects on individuals. It can lead to prejudice,
discrimination. discrimination, and violence. Out-group members may
We can reduce the negative effects of in-group be denied opportunities or even harmed because of
membership by promoting intergroup contact and their out-group membership.
cooperation. We can also challenge our own biases and Discussion
prejudices. By doing so, we can create a more Out-group membership is a natural part of human
inclusive and just society. social life. However, it is important to be aware of the
Here are some additional thoughts on in-groups: potential negative effects of out-group membership,
 In-groups can be either formal or informal. such as prejudice, discrimination, and violence. We can
Formal in-groups have a clear structure and set reduce the negative effects of out-group membership
of rules. Informal in-groups have a more loose by promoting intergroup contact and cooperation. We
structure and fewer rules. can also challenge our own biases and prejudices. By
 In-groups can be small or large. Small in- doing so, we can create a more inclusive and just
groups, such as a family or close group of society.
friends, may be more intimate and cohesive Here are some additional thoughts on out-groups:
than large in-groups, such as a nation or  Out-groups can be either formal or informal.
religion. Formal out-groups have a clear structure and
 In-groups can be exclusive or inclusive. set of rules. Informal out-groups have a more
Exclusive in-groups have strict criteria for loose structure and fewer rules.
membership. Inclusive in-groups are more  Out-groups can be small or large. Small out-
open to new members. groups, such as a group of friends from a rival
It is important to note that in-group membership is not school, may be more personal and antagonistic
always positive. In-groups can also be a source of than large out-groups, such as members of a
conflict and violence. For example, gang violence is different religion or nationality.
often rooted in in-group rivalry.  Out-groups can be exclusive or inclusive.
Overall, in-groups are a complex and important part of Exclusive out-groups have strict criteria for
human social life. In-groups can have both positive membership. Inclusive out-groups are more
and negative effects on individuals and society. It is open to new members.
important to be aware of the potential benefits and It is important to note that out-group membership is
drawbacks of in-group membership so that we can not always negative. Out-groups can also be a source
promote the positive aspects and reduce the negative of curiosity, interest, and learning. For example, a
aspects. person might be interested in learning more about a
culture that is different from their own.
2. Out-Group Overall, out-groups are a complex and important part
• It’s a group to which people feel they do not belong. of human social life. Out-groups can have both
• Generally viewed as the outsider by the ingroup. positive and negative effects on individuals and
• Any member of the in- group has insufficient contact society. It is important to be aware of the potential
with the members of the out-groups. benefits and drawbacks of out-group membership so
• It has a feelings of strangeness, dislikes, avoidance, that we can promote the positive aspects and reduce
antagonism, indifference and hatred toward the out- the negative aspects.
group. Here are some examples of out-groups:
 Rival sports teams
 People of a different religion
Out-Group  People from a different socioeconomic class
An out-group is a social group to which an individual  People from a different country
does not identify. Out-group members tend to be  People of a different ethnicity
viewed less favorably than in-group members. They  People of a different sexual orientation
may be seen as outsiders, strangers, or even enemies.  People of a different gender identity
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
 People with disabilities they might start to rely more on their friends or peers
 People who are homeless for guidance.
 People who are in prison Reference groups play an important role in shaping our
It is important to remember that out-group members identities and values. By understanding the different
are individuals, just like in-group members. They types of reference groups and how they influence us,
should be treated with respect and dignity. we can make more informed choices about our lives.
Discussion
C. References Group Reference groups are a powerful force in our lives.
• It refers to the groups that are significant to us as They can influence our thoughts, feelings, and
models even though we ourselves may not be a part of behaviors in a variety of ways.
the group. Here are some of the ways in which reference groups
• Any group with whom individuals identify and can influence us:
whose attitudes and values they adopt.  Attitudes and values: Reference groups can
• Individual is not necessarily a member in the group influence our attitudes and values. For
or belonging to the individuals forming a group. example, if we are surrounded by people who
• The central aspect of reference group is self- value education, we are more likely to value
identification rather actual membership. education ourselves.
 Behavior: Reference groups can also influence
A reference group is a social group that an individual our behavior. For example, if we are friends
identifies with, even though they may not be a member with people who smoke, we are more likely to
of the group. Reference groups can be used as a model start smoking ourselves.
for comparison, and their attitudes and values can  Self-concept: Reference groups can also
influence the individual's own attitudes and values. influence our self-concept. For example, if we
Reference groups can be any type of group, including are surrounded by people who are supportive
family, friends, peers, celebrities, sports teams, or even and encouraging, we are more likely to have a
fictional characters. Individuals can have multiple positive self-image.
reference groups, and the importance of different It is important to be aware of the influence that
reference groups can vary depending on the situation. reference groups can have on us. We should choose our
For example, a teenager might use their friends as a reference groups wisely and make sure that they are
reference group when making decisions about what groups that we want to be like.
clothes to wear or how to behave. An adult might use We can also use reference groups to our advantage. For
their coworkers as a reference group when making example, if we are trying to achieve a goal, we can
decisions about how to dress for work or how to find a reference group of people who have already
behave in the 職場. achieved that goal and learn from them.
Reference groups can have a positive or negative Reference groups are a powerful tool that can be used
influence on individuals. For example, a reference to shape our lives for the better. By understanding how
group that values education and achievement can reference groups work, we can use them to our
motivate an individual to work hard and succeed. On advantage.
the other hand, a reference group that values material
possessions and risk-taking behavior can lead an
individual to make poor decisions.
Here are some examples of reference groups:
 Family
 Friends
 Peers
 Celebrities
 Sports teams
 Fictional characters
 Religious groups
 Social groups
 Professional groups
 Political groups
It is important to note that reference groups can change
over time. For example, a child might use their family
as their primary reference group, but as they get older,
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
SOCIALIZATION It is a continuing process whereby socialization process allows us to fit-in an organized
an individual acquires a personal identity and learns way of life by being accustomed including cultural
the norms, values, behavior, and social skills setting
appropriate to his and her social position SOCIAL CONTROL AND STABILITY integration to
Socialization can be determined from the two points of society binds individual to the control mechanisms set
view: forth by society’s norms with regard to acceptable
OBJECTIVE SOCIALIZATION It refers to the society social relationships and social behavior
acting upon the child
Objective socialization refers to the way in The perspective on socialization that you have
which society acts upon individuals to socialize them. provided is a valuable one. It emphasizes the
This can be seen in the many different social importance of socialization in shaping individual
institutions that exist, such as the family, school, and identity and social roles, as well as its role in
the workplace. Each of these institutions has its own promoting social order and stability.
set of rules, norms, and expectations, and individuals The five functions of socialization that you have
are socialized to conform to these in order to be identified are all important for individual and social
successful members of society. well-being.
For example, a child learns to say "please" and  Personal roles and development: Socialization
"thank you" at home, follow the rules of the classroom helps us to develop our sense of self and to
at school, and dress appropriately for work. These are understand the different roles that we play in
all examples of objective socialization. society. This is important for our personal
SUBJECTIVE SOCIALIZATION The process by growth and development, as well as for our
which society transmits its culture from one generation ability to function effectively in different
to the next and adapts the individual to the accepted social settings.
and approved ways of organized social life  Skills development and training: Socialization
Subjective socialization refers to the way in helps us to develop the skills and knowledge
which individuals actively participate in their own that we need to function in society. This
socialization. This involves interpreting and includes both social skills, such as
internalizing the social messages that they receive communication and interpersonal skills, as
from others. Subjective socialization is also influenced well as occupational skills, such as the skills
by individual factors such as personality, temperament, necessary to perform a particular job.
and life experiences.  Values formation: Socialization helps us to
For example, a teenager may choose to join a develop our values and beliefs. We learn about
particular social group because they share the same the things that are important to our society and
values and interests. A young adult may decide to the things that we should strive for. This helps
pursue a particular career because they are passionate us to make informed decisions and to live
about it and believe in its importance. A parent may meaningful lives.
choose to raise their child in a certain way because  Social integration and
they believe it is the best way to prepare them for life. adjustment: Socialization helps us to fit in and
participate in society. We learn the norms and
The perspective on socialization helps identify rules of social behavior, and we develop the
formation of individuals which is essential in social skills necessary to interact with others
establishing his/her social role. It includes the effectively. This is important for our mental
following function: and emotional well-being, as well as for our
PERSONAL ROLES AND DEVELOPMENT It is ability to succeed in different social contexts.
through the process of socialization that we develop  Social control and stability: Socialization helps
our sense of identity and belongingness. to maintain social order and cohesion. We
SKILLS DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING The learn what is considered to be acceptable and
much- unacceptable behavior, and we are taught to
needed social skills such as conform to social norms. This helps to prevent
communication, interpersonal, and conflict and to create a more harmonious
occupational are developed VALUES FORMATION society.
Individuals are influenced or engulfed by the These five functions of socialization are interrelated
prevailing values of social groups and society. and complementary. They all work together to help us
SOCIAL INTEGRATION AND ADJUSTMENT The to become well-rounded and productive members of
society.
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
For example, our personal roles and development are introducing and integrating an individual as an
influenced by the skills and knowledge that we accepted and functioning member of society. They are
develop, the values that we internalize, and the way in responsible for transmitting the norms, values, and
which we integrate and adjust to society. Similarly, our beliefs of society to individuals.
social control and stability is dependent on our Traditional agents of socialization are the ones that
personal roles and development, our skills and have been around for a long time and are considered to
knowledge, our values, and our social integration and be essential parts of society. They include:
adjustment.  Family: The family is the most important
Socialization is a lifelong process that begins at birth agent of socialization, especially in early
and continues throughout our lives. It is influenced by childhood. Children learn about the world and
a variety of factors, including our family, school, peers, how to behave from their parents, siblings, and
religious organizations, and the media. Socialization is other family members.
essential for both individuals and society as a whole. It  School: School is another important agent of
allows individuals to develop the skills and knowledge socialization, especially for children and
they need to function in society, and it helps to adolescents. Students learn about academic
maintain social order and cohesion. subjects, as well as social skills and norms.
Here are some examples of how the five functions of  Religion: Religion can be a powerful agent of
socialization operate in the real world: socialization, especially for people who are
 A child learns from their parents that it is devout. Religious organizations teach
important to be respectful of others and to help individuals about religious beliefs and values,
those in need. These values are internalized by as well as social norms and behaviors.
the child and become part of their moral  Peer groups: Peer groups are also important
compass. agents of socialization, especially for
 A student learns in school how to work adolescents and young adults. Individuals
collaboratively on projects and how to give learn about their social identity and how to fit
and receive feedback. These social skills are in with others through their interactions with
essential for success in the workplace and in their peers.
other social settings. Emergent agents of socialization are newer and more
 An adult immigrant learns the language and recent additions to society. They include:
customs of their new country. This allows  Mass media: The mass media, such as
them to integrate into society and to participate television, movies, and the internet, are
fully in civic and economic life. powerful agents of socialization. They can
 A society's norms and values help to shape the influence people's values, beliefs, and
behavior of its members. For example, a behaviors in a variety of ways.
society that values hard work and education is  Social media: Social media platforms, such as
more likely to have a productive and Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, are also
prosperous economy. emergent agents of socialization. They allow
individuals to connect with others from all
AGENTS OF SOCIALIZATION It refers to the over the world and to share their thoughts and
various social groups or social institutions that play a ideas.
significant role in introducing and integrating the  Technology: Technology can also be an agent
individual as an accepted and functioning member of of socialization. For example, video games can
society. teach individuals about teamwork, problem-
TRADITIONAL -Refers to traditional, normal, part of solving, and strategic thinking.
culture, regular aspects an individual would be Social status refers to the position an individual
associated with in their socialization process occupies in society. It is determined by a variety of
EMERGENT- Refers to the emerging, new dynamic, factors, including education, occupation, income, and
changing aspects an individual would become social class. Social status can have a significant impact
associated with as a part of their socialization process on an individual's socialization process. For example,
Social Status It refers to the position an individual individuals with higher social status may have access
occupies in society and implies an array of rights and to better educational and employment opportunities,
duties, and they may be more likely to be exposed to certain
social groups and cultural values.
Agents of socialization are the various social groups or The relationship between agents of socialization and
social institutions that play a significant role in social status is complex and multifaceted. Agents of
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
socialization can play a role in determining an  Compliance: People may conform in order to
individual's social status, and an individual's social be liked or accepted by the group. This is
status can influence the agents of socialization to known as compliance.
which they are exposed. For example, individuals from  Internalization: People may conform because
higher social status families may be more likely to they believe that the group's norms are correct
attend prestigious schools and to join exclusive social or important. This is known as internalization.
groups.  Identification: People may conform because
Here are some examples of how agents of socialization they want to be part of the group and feel like
and social status can interact: they belong. This is known as identification.
 A child from a middle-class family may be  Ingratiation: People may conform in order to
more likely to attend a public school than a gain favor or approval from the group. This is
child from a wealthy family, who may attend a known as ingratiation.
private school. The four types of conformity that you have identified
 A student from a lower social status family are all different ways that people can change their
may be less likely to be encouraged to pursue behavior to match the norms of the group.
higher education than a student from a higher  Compliance: Compliance is the most common
social status family. type of conformity. It occurs when people
 A young adult from a working-class family change their behavior in order to be liked or
may be more likely to socialize with other accepted by the group. Compliance is often
working-class individuals than a young adult motivated by a fear of rejection or a desire to
from a professional-class family. avoid social conflict.
 Internalization: Internalization is a more
genuine type of conformity. It occurs when
CONFORMITY The process of conformity is when people change their behavior because they
where individuals attempt to change his/her behavior believe that the group's norms are correct or
because of the desire to conform with defined social important. Internalization is often motivated
norm. by a desire to be a good member of the group
 Compliance (group acceptance)- This occurs or to live up to the group's ideals.
when an individual accepts influence because  Identification: Identification is a type of
he hopes to achieve a favorable reaction from conformity that is motivated by a desire to be
another person or group. part of the group and feel like they belong.
 Internalization (genuine acceptance of group People who identify with a group are more
norms) This occurs when an individual accepts likely to conform to the group's norms, even if
influence because the content of the induced they don't necessarily agree with them.
behavior- the ideas and actions of which it is  Ingratiation: Ingratiation is a type of
composed- is intrinsically rewarding. He adopts conformity that is motivated by a desire to
the induced behavior because it is congruent or gain favor or approval from the group. People
consistent with his value system. who are trying to ingratiate themselves to a
 Identification (group membership) - This group are more likely to conform to the
occurs when an individual accepts influence group's norms, even if they don't necessarily
because he wants to establish or maintain a agree with them.
satisfying self-defining relationship to another Conformity can have both positive and negative
person or group. consequences. On the one hand, conformity can help to
 Ingratiational - This is when a person conforms promote social order and cohesion. It can also help
to impress or gain favor/acceptance from other people to learn new things and to adapt to new
people. It is similar to normative influence, but situations. On the other hand, conformity can also lead
is motivated by the need for social rewards to people making bad decisions or doing things that
rather than the threat of rejection, i.e., group they don't believe in. It can also lead to people feeling
pressure does not enter the decision to conform. like they don't fit in or that they don't belong.

Conformity is the process by which individuals change

their behavior to match the norms of the group they are DEVIATION Social Deviation means the non-
with. This can happen for a variety of reasons, conformity of an individual from acceptable social
including: norms. It refers to any behavior that differs or diverges
from established social norms
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
Social Deviance It refers to any behavior that differs or problems such as poverty, inequality, and
diverges from established social norms discrimination. By studying deviance, we can
FUNCTIONS OF DEVIANCE learn more about the problems that exist in
 Deviance serves as an outlet for diverse forms society and how to address them.
of expressions Sociological theories of deviance seek to explain why
 Deviance serves to define the limits of people engage in deviant behavior. Two of the most
acceptable behavior well-known sociological theories of deviance are
 Deviance may also promote in-group functionalist theory and strain theory.
solidarity Functionalist theory argues that deviance is a normal
 Deviance can serve as a barometer of social and necessary part of society. It serves a number of
strain important functions, such as affirming cultural values
Sociological Theories of Deviance and norms, clarifying moral boundaries, promoting
1. Functionalist Theory According to Emile social unity, and encouraging social change.
Durkheim, deviance can serve a number of functions Strain theory argues that deviance is caused by the
to society. He asserted that there is nothing abnormal strain that people experience when they are unable to
in deviance. achieve their goals through socially approved means.
FOUR MAJOR FUNCTIONS OF DEVIANCE This strain can lead to people engaging in deviant
a) Deviance affirms cultural values and norms behavior, such as crime.
b) Responding to deviance Both functionalist theory and strain theory have been
clarifiesmoral boundary influential in the study of deviance. They provide
c) Responding to deviance promotes social unity different perspectives on why people engage in deviant
d) Deviance encourages social change behavior, but they both highlight the importance of
2. Strain Theory Robert Merton argued that in an social factors in shaping deviant behavior.
unequal society the tension or strain between socially
approved goals and an individual’s ability to meet Merton gave the following forms of deviance that
those goals through socially approved means will lead emerge from strain
to deviance as individuals reject either the goals, the Conformity- It involves accepting both the cultural
means, or both goal of success and the use of legitimate means for
achieving that goal.
Social deviation refers to any behavior that differs or Innovation- This response involves accepting the goal
diverges from established social norms. It can be either of success but rejecting the use of socially accepted
positive or negative. Positive deviation refers to means of achieving it, turning instead to
behavior that is considered to be desirable or beneficial unconventional, illegitimate means.
to society, such as creativity or innovation. Negative Ritualism- This occurs when people deemphasize or
deviation refers to behavior that is considered to be reject the importance of success once they realize they
undesirable or harmful to society, such as crime or will never achieve it and instead concentrate on
violence. following or enforcing these rules than ever was
Deviance serves a number of functions in society: intended.
 It serves as an outlet for diverse forms of Retreatism- This means withdrawal from society,
expression. Deviance allows individuals to caring neither about success nor about working.
express themselves in ways that are not always Rebellion- This occurs people reject and attempt to
accepted by society. This can include things change both the goals and the means approved by
like art, music, and fashion. society.
 It serves to define the limits of acceptable
behavior. Deviance shows us what is Robert Merton's strain theory is a sociological theory
considered to be acceptable and unacceptable that explains deviance as a response to social strain.
behavior in a society. This helps to maintain Merton argued that society puts pressure on individuals
social order and cohesion. to achieve certain goals, such as financial success, but
 It may also promote in-group solidarity. When not everyone has the opportunity to achieve these goals
people respond to deviance, they often come through legitimate means. This can lead to strain,
together to reaffirm their shared values and which can in turn lead to deviance.
norms. This can strengthen social bonds and Merton identified five different ways in which
promote social unity. individuals can respond to strain:
 It can serve as a barometer of social
strain. Deviance can be a sign of social
UNDERSTANDING CULTURE, SOCIETY AND POLITICS
 Conformity: Individuals accept both the  Involvement: Individuals are less likely to
cultural goal of success and the use of engage in deviance if they are actively
legitimate means to achieve that goal. involved in their families, schools, and
 Innovation: Individuals accept the goal of communities.
success but reject the use of socially accepted
means of achieving it. This may lead to Discussion
individuals engaging in illegal or illegitimate Merton's strain theory and Hirschi's social control
activities, such as crime or theft. theory are two of the most influential sociological
 Ritualism: Individuals reject the goal of theories of deviance. Both theories offer valuable
success but continue to follow the socially insights into the factors that contribute to deviance.
accepted means of achieving it. This may lead Merton's strain theory highlights the importance of
to individuals becoming obsessed with social structure in explaining deviance. He argued that
following rules and procedures, even when societies that put a lot of emphasis on success but
they are no longer necessary or effective. provide few opportunities for people to achieve
 Retreatism: Individuals reject both the goal of success through legitimate means are more likely to
success and the use of socially accepted means experience high rates of deviance.
of achieving it. This may lead to individuals Hirschi's social control theory highlights the
withdrawing from society and engaging in importance of social relationships in explaining
social isolation. deviance. He argued that individuals who have strong
 Rebellion: Individuals reject both the goal of social bonds to their families, schools, and
success and the use of socially accepted means communities are less likely to engage in deviance.
of achieving it, and they attempt to create new Both theories have been criticized for their limitations.
goals and means. This may lead to individuals Merton's strain theory has been criticized for failing to
engaging in social activism or revolutionary explain why some individuals engage in deviance
activity. while others do not, even when they are experiencing
the same level of strain. Hirschi's social control theory
has been criticized for failing to explain why some
Hirschi's Social Control Theory individuals engage in deviance even when they have
strong social bonds.
Control Theory Despite their limitations, Merton's strain theory and
Travis Hirschi assumed that the family, school, and Hirschi's social control theory remain important and
other social institutions can greatly contribute to social influential sociological theories of deviance. They
order by controlling deviant tendencies in every offer valuable insights into the factors that contribute
individual. to deviance, and they have been used to develop
effective programs to prevent and reduce crime.
Travis Hirschi's social control theory is a sociological
theory that explains deviance as a result of weak social
bonds. Hirschi argued that individuals are less likely to
engage in deviance if they have strong social bonds to
their families, schools, and communities. These social
bonds provide individuals with a sense of belonging,
attachment, and commitment, which can deter them
from engaging in deviance.
Hirschi identified four main types of social control:
 Attachment: Individuals are less likely to
engage in deviance if they have strong
emotional attachments to their families,
schools, and communities.
 Belief: Individuals are less likely to engage in
deviance if they believe in the legitimacy of
social norms and values.
 Investment: Individuals are less likely to
engage in deviance if they have invested time
and effort in their education, careers, and
relationships.