A culture is a logical system that ensures the survival of a social group.
The word "system" implies that cultures are highly complex, involving multiple interrelations.
- The word "logical" implies that cultural practices are perfectly reasonable for the members of the culture - even if they seem strange to outsiders!
- The word "survival" implies that cultural practices may be perceived by the members of the culture as beneficial.
It's True! Read the definition of culture offered by Edgar Schein in "What you need to know about organizational culture." (bottom of page 30). How does Schein's definition differ from the one offered above?
Reference: Schein, E. H. (1986). What you need to know about organizational culture. Training & Development Journal, 40(1), 30-33. |
Tip Read the Article "Body Ritual Among the Nacirema" by Horace Miner (link provided on this page). What do you think the author is trying to say? Who are the Nacirema?
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