Sociology

Reflection Paper - Culture

Culture is an important part of every society. Without it, we would not know how to survive; culture is the toolbox that we use to navigate and interpret our social world. This reflection paper is intended to get you to think about and describe the cultures, subcultures and/or countercultures to which you belong. What are the most important cultural elements of your own culture or sub/counter-culture (e.g. styles of dress, behaviors, activities, symbols, etc.)? What are some of the values and norms of this social group? What sorts of sanctions are used to enforce these norms?

How might your culture differ from someone in China, India, or Afghanistan, or, how might it be similar (e.g. global diffusion of hip-hop and skateboarding subcultures)?  How has your culture been affected by the forces of modernization and globalization?  Be sure to use terms and concepts from our readings.

All Reflection Papers should be between 3–4 pages in length, typed, double-spaced with 12 point font and 1-inch margins. Reflection papers must make use of reference materials (course materials or outside readings), and must include in-text citations for the quotes or references made in your essay as well as a bibliography.