CSP Cultural Sociology & Identity Flashcards

Cultural diffusion refers to:

Answer: The spread of cultural elements from one society to another

Cultural diffusion is the process by which cultural elements, such as practices, ideas, and technologies, spread from one society to another.

Which concept describes a group whose values and norms sharply conflict with those of the dominant culture?

Answer: Counterculture

A counterculture actively rejects and opposes the dominant cultural norms, whereas a subculture simply differs without direct opposition.

The term 'symbolic culture' refers to:

Answer: Nonmaterial elements like language, gestures, and values that carry shared meanings

Symbolic culture includes the nonmaterial aspects of culture—language, values, norms, and gestures—that convey shared social meaning.

A CSP practitioner assessing cultural change in a community would expect cultural lag to occur when:

Answer: Material culture changes faster than nonmaterial culture can adapt

Cultural lag, coined by William Ogburn, describes the gap that occurs when material culture (technology) changes faster than nonmaterial culture (norms, values).

Which sociological perspective views culture as a mechanism used by dominant groups to maintain power and inequality?

Answer: Conflict theory

Conflict theory argues that cultural norms and values often reflect and reinforce the interests of dominant groups, perpetuating social inequality.

In CSP practice, understanding 'code-switching' is important because it reflects:

Answer: The ability of individuals to shift language and behavior to fit different cultural contexts

Code-switching refers to the practice of alternating between different linguistic or cultural styles depending on social context, often used by people navigating multiple cultural environments.