Culture Elements

An exploration of key elements and sociologist theories

Presentation by : Mubashir Jaleel and Daniyal Nawaz

4th batch 2026

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Definition of Culture
• Culture refers to the beliefs, behaviors, objects, and other
characteristics shared by groups of people.

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Elements of Culture
• 1. Language (Primary means of communication within a culture)
• 2. Symbols (Symbols are objects, gestures, sounds, or images that carry cultural
meaning)
• 3. Values (Values are the beliefs and principles that guide behavior and decision-
making within a culture. They represent what is considered important, desirable, or
morally right by members of a society)
• 4. Norms (Norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern social behavior
within a culture)
• 5. Rituals (Rituals are symbolic actions, ceremonies, or routines performed within a
culture to express identity, commemorate important events, or reinforce social bonds)
• 6. Artifacts (Artifacts are physical objects or creations that reflect cultural values,
practices, and achievements)
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 Sociologist Theories - Functionalism

• Functionalism, proposed by Emile Durkheim, suggests that culture

serves important functions in society, such as promoting stability and
cohesion.
• Durkheim believed that social order was not simply the result of
individual actions but rather emerged from the collective
consciousness and shared values of a society. He proposed that social
institutions, such as religion, education, and the family, played
essential roles in regulating behavior and promoting social
integration.

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Sociologist Theories - Conflict Theory
• Conflict theory, associated with Karl Marx, views culture as a tool used
by the powerful to maintain their dominance and control over society.
Marx argued that throughout history, societies have been divided into
two main classes: the bourgeoisie (owners of the means of production)
and the proletariat (workers who sell their labor) and believed that
capitalism, as an economic system, inherently creates conflict between
these two classes. He asserted that the bourgeoisie exploit the
proletariat by extracting surplus value from their labor, resulting in
alienation and inequality. According to Marx, this exploitation leads to a
perpetual struggle between the ruling class and the working class over
resources, wages, and control of the means of production.
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Cultural Relativism
• Cultural relativism, advocated by Franz Boas, suggests that cultures
should be understood within their own context and not judged by the
standards of another culture.
Boas also criticized racial stereotypes and advocated for the idea that
biological differences among human populations were largely the result
of environmental factors rather than inherent racial characteristics. He
argued against the use of race as a determinant of intelligence or
cultural capacity, emphasizing the importance of social and historical
factors in shaping human diversity.

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Conclusion
• Culture is a complex and multifaceted concept that influences every
aspect of our lives. By understanding its elements and theories, we
gain insight into the dynamics of human society.

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Thank You