MEVE 017: Unit 02 - Society and Culture

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UNIT 2: SOCIETY AND CULTURE

2.0 Introduction

Society and culture are closely connected. While society is a group of people living together, culture is the way those people live—their beliefs, customs, language, dress, food habits, and traditions. Culture gives identity to a society and shapes the way people behave and interact with one another. This unit explains the types of culture, the role of socialization, and how culture is linked to the environment and different communities.

2.1 Objectives

This unit will help you:

  • Understand the meaning of material and non-material aspects of society
  • Learn about the nature and importance of culture
  • Know how socialization shapes individuals
  • Explore the role of religious minorities in society
  • Understand how culture is connected to the environment, especially in tribal communities

2.2 Definition of Material and Non-Material Society

Society includes both material and non-material aspects.

  • Material society refers to physical objects made by people—like buildings, clothes, tools, and vehicles. These are visible parts of culture.
  • Non-material society includes values, beliefs, language, customs, music, and traditions. These are invisible but deeply influence our way of life.

Together, both parts create the full picture of a society and its culture.

2.3 Nature of Culture

Culture is shared, learned, and passed from one generation to another. It helps people know how to behave in different situations. Culture is not fixed; it changes over time with new ideas and inventions. It can vary between societies, but it always plays a key role in shaping identity, communication, and unity within a group.

2.4 Importance of Socialization

Socialization is the process by which individuals, especially children, learn the rules, values, customs, and behavior of their society. It helps a person understand what is right and wrong and how to live with others. Socialization begins in the family and continues in school, among friends, and through media and religion.

2.5 Process of Socialization

The process of socialization takes place through:

  • Family – the first and most important agent of socialization
  • Schools and teachers – teach discipline, cooperation, and knowledge
  • Peers or friends – help in developing social skills and personal identity
  • Media – influences thinking and awareness
  • Religion – shapes moral values and traditions

Each stage helps in building a person's personality and behavior suitable to the society they live in.

2.6 Religious Minorities

In India, we have people from different religions like Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and others. Religious minorities are groups who follow a religion different from the majority of people in a region. They have their own customs, traditions, and places of worship. The Indian Constitution gives equal rights and protection to all religious groups to maintain peace, unity, and respect for diversity.

2.7 Culture and Environment

Culture is deeply connected to the natural environment. Many communities develop customs and beliefs to protect and live in harmony with nature.

2.7.1 Tribal Culture

Tribal communities often live close to forests and rivers. Their culture is deeply rooted in nature. They use natural resources wisely and respect animals, trees, and rivers as part of their lives. Songs, dances, and rituals in tribal culture often reflect their love for nature.

2.7.2 Bishnoism

The Bishnoi community, mainly found in Rajasthan, is famous for protecting the environment. They follow 29 principles given by their spiritual leader Guru Jambheshwar, which include protecting animals and trees, especially the Khejri tree. The Bishnoi movement is an early example of environmental conservation.

2.7.3 Sacred Groves

Sacred groves are patches of forest that are protected because of religious or cultural beliefs. Local people believe these groves are the home of gods and spirits, so they do not cut trees or hunt animals there. Sacred groves are found in many parts of India and help preserve biodiversity.

2.8 Let Us Sum Up

Culture is an essential part of society, shaping how people live, behave, and relate to the environment. It includes both material and non-material elements. Socialization is the process by which culture is passed from one person to another. Religious minorities and tribal cultures show the richness and variety of Indian society. Traditions like Bishnoism and sacred groves highlight how culture can also protect nature. Understanding society and culture helps us live respectfully and responsibly in a diverse world.

 

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