All Work Must Be Original In APA Format For Each Essay

All Work Must Be Original In APA Format Each Essay Must Have the

All Work Must Be Be original in APA format; each essay must have their own individual quotes and references.

Paper For Above instruction

Briefly describe an example of the structural-functional analysis of culture that rests in the concepts of idealism, which places values at the center of culture. Does this cultural pattern help society to operate as a whole? If it does not, explain why, or explain why it belongs in a different analysis (social-conflict; sociobiology). (200 words)

Compare values and norms to ideal culture and real culture. What examples can you identify that represent a significant difference between an ideal culture and a real culture? (200 words)

Examine the article titled “U.S. Troops Train for Both Combat and Conversation” in your textbook. How does this example relate to cultural relativism in the War on Terror? If you were to take a trip, how might you use cultural relativism to adhere to the norms of that society? (200 words)

With our ever-increasing global economy and ability to communicate across the world in real time, how does a global perspective help when examining elements of culture? (200 words)

Paper For Above instruction

Culture, a foundational element of society, is often analyzed through various theoretical perspectives. The structural-functional analysis, rooted in idealism, emphasizes the role of shared values and norms in maintaining societal stability. An illustrative example is the concept of the American Dream, which embodies core values such as hard work, individualism, and success. These ideals foster societal cohesion by providing a collective aspiration, guiding individual behaviors, and reinforcing social bonds. The reverence for these values promotes social order, encouraging citizens to contribute positively to societal stability. However, while this pattern facilitates societal operation, it does not account for social inequalities or conflicts. Critics argue that idealism glosses over disparities, thus belonging more appropriately to a social-conflict analysis that highlights power struggles and societal inequalities. Alternatively, sociobiology might interpret such cultural ideals as evolutionary adaptations for survival strategies. Ultimately, the idealism-centered analysis contributes significantly to understanding societal cohesion but must be integrated with other perspectives for a comprehensive view.

Values are deeply held beliefs about what is right or desirable, while norms are specific rules prescribing acceptable behaviors. Ideal culture comprises the norms, values, and practices that a society aspires to uphold, representing its ideal standards. Real culture, however, reflects actual behaviors and practices, which often fall short of ideals. For instance, many societies valorize gender equality (ideal culture), but gender-based disparities persist in reality, such as wage gaps or occupational segregation. This discrepancy exemplifies the divergence between aspirational norms and everyday practices, revealing tensions between cultural ideals and social realities. Such differences highlight the conflict between what societies claim to uphold and what is practically observed, informing sociological understanding of social change and resistance.

The article “U.S. Troops Train for Both Combat and Conversation” demonstrates the importance of cultural relativism in the War on Terror. U.S. military training emphasizes understanding local customs and norms, fostering respect and effective communication within diverse cultural contexts. This approach aligns with cultural relativism, advocating for the appreciation of cultural differences without immediate judgment, thus enhancing cooperation and reducing cultural misunderstandings. When traveling, employing cultural relativism involves observing and adapting to local norms and practices rather than imposing one’s own cultural standards. This respectful approach facilitates meaningful engagement and minimizes cultural insensitivity, fostering positive intercultural relations. Embracing cultural relativism enriches personal experiences and supports diplomatic or social harmony across diverse societies, especially in complex international environments like military operations or tourism.

In the context of a globalized world, a global perspective is essential in understanding cultural elements as it broadens awareness beyond one's cultural confines. It enables recognition of cultural diversity, challenges ethnocentric views, and fosters intercultural understanding. For example, global perspectives can illuminate how different societies approach family dynamics, leadership, or communication styles, promoting mutual respect. Additionally, in international business, understanding cultural differences can lead to more effective cross-cultural negotiations and partnerships. A global outlook encourages critical examination of our assumptions, promotes cultural relativism, and enhances adaptability. As societies become more interconnected through technology and commerce, applying a global perspective is vital for fostering cooperation, reducing conflicts, and facilitating sustainable interactions across diverse cultures.

References

  • Macionis, J. J. (2011). Society: The basics (11th ed.). Prentice Hall.
  • Hofstede, G. (2001). Culture's consequences: Comparing values, behaviors, institutions, and organizations across nations. Sage Publications.
  • Levi-Strauss, C. (1969). The raw and the cooked: Mythologiques. Harper & Row.
  • Geert Hofstede. (2019). Cultural Dimensions. Hofstede Insights. https://www.hofstede-insights.com/models/national-cultural-dimensions/
  • Edward T. Hall. (1976). Beyond culture. Anchor Books.
  • Triandis, H. C. (1994). Culture and social behavior. McGraw-Hill.
  • Sen, A. (2006). Identity and violence: The illusion of destiny. W.W. Norton & Company.
  • Fiske, A. P. (1992). Diversity in social perceptions of persons. Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, 25, 1-47.
  • Appiah, K. A. (2006). Cosmopolitanism: Ethics in a world of strangers. W.W. Norton & Company.
  • Richerson, P. J., & Boyd, R. (2005). Not by genes alone: How culture transformed human evolution. University of Chicago Press.

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