What is culture?

The Cambridge Dictionary defines culture as: “the way of life, especially the general customs and beliefs, of a particular group of people at a particular time[1].” My definition of culture is the food, fashions, beliefs, and language of a group of people experiencing the same circumstances. Culture can be objective and subjective. Objective culture is defined as: The tangible aspects of culture such as food, costumes and outfits, and even the names people give to things[2]. It is typically found in the form of practices (e.g., ways of talking or walking), objects, and ritual or religious objects (material culture)2. Subjective culture is defined as: Any cultural aspect that is not tangible, such as ideology, values, and social role2.

While on vacation, I experience the objective culture by exploring the local culture of whatever state or country I visit. This exploration includes dining in local restaurants, visiting museums and historical sites, and taking plenty of pictures. Due to the pandemic, my traveling has slowed down; however, on the weekends, I like to think of ways I can become more cultured. In addition to traveling, listed below are a few things that I have done and you can try to contribute to your culture awareness.

1.       Study a foreign language.

I have studied Spanish for six years. Am I proficient? No. But each time, I study it, I feel like I am increasing my knowledge.

2.       Read about another religion.

I am currently reading Bhagavad Gita (As It Is) that is studied by those who practice Hinduism. I find that reading about another religion helps you to better understand the beliefs of another ethnic group.

3.       Try food from different cultures.

I love purchasing Asian vegetables from the international market and trying recipes that include them.

4.       Become friends with others of a different cultural background.

I have learned about Puerto Rican and Vietnamese culture through my friends.

5.       Attend cultural festivals.

This year I attended two Caribbean festivals that allowed me to experience the food and music of various Caribbean islands 

How have you improved your culture awareness?

[1] McIntosh, C. (2021). Culture. In Rundell, J. & Wedgeworth, L. (Eds.) Cambridge Dictionary. https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/culture

[2] Yousof, A. K., & Abousamra, N. (2019). The future of digital game-based learning (DGBL) in shaping intercultural communication competency. In Critical Issues Impacting Science, Technology, Society (STS), and Our Future (pp. 81-110). IGI Global.