Culture vs. Subculture

Attribute	Culture	Subculture
Definition	A set of shared beliefs, values, customs, and behaviors that are passed down from generation to generation within a society.	A smaller group within a larger culture that shares its own unique beliefs, values, customs, and behaviors.
Size	Large and encompasses a wide range of people within a society.	Smaller and represents a specific group or community within a larger culture.
Origin	Develops over time through historical, geographical, and social factors.	Emerges as a response to specific interests, ideologies, or experiences within a culture.
Shared Identity	Shared by a significant portion of the population within a society.	Shared by a smaller subset of people who identify with a particular subculture.
Beliefs	Includes religious, political, and philosophical beliefs that shape the worldview of a society.	May have unique beliefs that differ from the dominant culture, often related to specific interests or ideologies.
Values	Shared principles and standards that guide behavior and decision-making within a society.	May have distinct values that reflect the interests and priorities of the subculture.
Customs	Traditional practices, rituals, and behaviors that are widely accepted within a society.	May have their own customs and traditions that are specific to the subculture.
Language	Shared language(s) used for communication within a society.	May have unique slang, jargon, or terminology specific to the subculture.
Art and Expression	Includes various forms of art, music, literature, and other cultural expressions.	May have their own distinct forms of art and expression that reflect the subculture's interests and values.
Social Norms	Shared expectations and rules that govern social interactions within a society.	May have their own social norms that differ from the dominant culture, often related to specific behaviors or practices.

Introduction

Culture and subculture are two terms often used to describe different aspects of society. While they share similarities, they also have distinct attributes that set them apart. Understanding the differences between culture and subculture can provide valuable insights into the various groups and communities that exist within a larger society.

Definition and Scope

Culture refers to the shared beliefs, values, customs, behaviors, and artifacts that characterize a group or society. It encompasses the entire way of life of a particular group, including their language, religion, traditions, and social norms. Culture is often passed down from generation to generation and shapes the collective identity of a community.

On the other hand, subculture refers to a smaller group within a larger culture that shares distinct characteristics that differentiate them from the dominant culture. Subcultures can emerge based on various factors such as age, ethnicity, occupation, hobbies, or interests. They often develop their own unique language, symbols, rituals, and social practices that set them apart from the mainstream culture.

Attributes of Culture

One of the key attributes of culture is its pervasive nature. Culture influences every aspect of an individual's life, from their beliefs and values to their behaviors and interactions with others. It provides a framework for understanding the world and shapes the way people perceive and interpret their experiences.

Culture is also dynamic and ever-evolving. It adapts and changes over time in response to various factors such as technological advancements, globalization, and social movements. However, cultural change often occurs gradually and is influenced by a wide range of internal and external factors.

Furthermore, culture is shared among members of a particular group or society. It provides a sense of belonging and identity, as individuals within a culture often share common experiences, values, and traditions. This shared culture helps to create social cohesion and facilitates communication and cooperation among its members.

Culture is also learned and acquired through socialization. From a young age, individuals are exposed to the beliefs, values, and practices of their culture through family, education, and other social institutions. This process of enculturation shapes their worldview and influences their behavior and decision-making throughout their lives.

Lastly, culture is often transmitted through symbols and language. Symbols, such as flags, religious icons, or national emblems, represent shared meanings within a culture. Language, on the other hand, serves as a tool for communication and expression, allowing individuals to convey their thoughts, emotions, and cultural values.

Attributes of Subculture

Subcultures, while sharing some attributes with culture, also possess distinct characteristics that set them apart. One of the key attributes of subculture is its smaller size and more specific focus. Subcultures emerge within a larger culture and are often formed around shared interests, beliefs, or activities.

Unlike culture, which encompasses a wide range of beliefs and practices, subcultures tend to be more specialized and niche-oriented. For example, a subculture may form around a particular music genre, such as punk or hip-hop, or a specific hobby, such as gaming or skateboarding. These subcultures develop their own unique set of values, norms, and behaviors that are distinct from the mainstream culture.

Subcultures also provide a sense of identity and belonging to their members. Individuals who identify with a particular subculture often find like-minded individuals who share their interests and passions. This sense of belonging can be particularly important for individuals who may feel marginalized or misunderstood within the dominant culture.

Furthermore, subcultures often challenge or resist certain aspects of the dominant culture. They may adopt alternative lifestyles, fashion styles, or ideologies that go against mainstream norms and values. Subcultures can serve as a form of cultural resistance or a way for individuals to express their individuality and autonomy.

Subcultures also tend to have their own distinct language and symbols. They develop slang, jargon, or specific terminology that is unique to their group. These linguistic markers help to reinforce group identity and create a sense of exclusivity among subculture members.

Interactions between Culture and Subculture

While culture and subculture are distinct concepts, they are not mutually exclusive. Subcultures exist within the larger framework of culture and are influenced by the dominant cultural norms and values to some extent. At the same time, subcultures can also influence and shape the broader culture through their unique contributions and perspectives.

Subcultures often serve as sources of innovation and creativity within a society. They can introduce new ideas, art forms, or social movements that challenge the status quo and push for change. Over time, some elements of subcultures may be adopted by the mainstream culture, leading to cultural diffusion and the evolution of the dominant culture.

However, subcultures can also face resistance or marginalization from the dominant culture. They may be stigmatized or misunderstood, leading to social exclusion or discrimination. This tension between subcultures and the dominant culture can sometimes result in conflicts or clashes of values and beliefs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, culture and subculture are two interconnected yet distinct concepts that shape the social fabric of a society. Culture encompasses the shared beliefs, values, and practices of a larger group or society, while subculture refers to smaller groups within that culture that share distinct characteristics and interests. Understanding the attributes of culture and subculture can provide valuable insights into the diverse groups and communities that exist within a larger society, fostering a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of human social dynamics.