Material Culture vs. Non-Material Culture

Attribute	Material Culture	Non-Material Culture
Physical	Objects, artifacts	Beliefs, values
Tangible	Can be touched, seen	Cannot be touched, seen
Observable	Visible in the environment	Expressed through behavior
Transmitted through generations	Passed down through objects	Passed down through stories, traditions

Introduction

Material culture and non-material culture are two important aspects of human society that shape our behaviors, beliefs, and values. While material culture refers to physical objects created by a society, non-material culture encompasses the intangible aspects such as beliefs, values, norms, and language. In this article, we will explore the attributes of material culture and non-material culture and discuss how they influence our daily lives.

Attributes of Material Culture

Material culture consists of physical objects that are created, used, and shared by a society. These objects can include tools, clothing, architecture, art, and technology. One key attribute of material culture is that it is tangible and can be seen, touched, and experienced. For example, a traditional Japanese tea set is a physical object that represents the material culture of Japan. Material culture also reflects the values, beliefs, and practices of a society, as these objects are often created to serve a specific purpose or function.

• Physical objects
• Tangible
• Reflects values and beliefs
• Created for specific purposes

Examples of Material Culture

Examples of material culture can be found in every society around the world. In the United States, material culture includes items such as fast food restaurants, smartphones, and baseball caps. These objects reflect the values and lifestyle of American society. In contrast, the material culture of indigenous tribes in the Amazon rainforest may include handmade tools, woven baskets, and traditional clothing. These objects are essential for their survival and are passed down through generations.

Attributes of Non-Material Culture

Non-material culture refers to the intangible aspects of a society, including beliefs, values, norms, language, and symbols. Unlike material culture, non-material culture cannot be physically touched or seen, but it plays a crucial role in shaping our behaviors and interactions. One key attribute of non-material culture is that it is transmitted through socialization and communication. For example, language is a form of non-material culture that allows us to communicate with others and share ideas and beliefs.

• Intangible aspects
• Beliefs, values, norms
• Language and symbols
• Transmitted through socialization

Examples of Non-Material Culture

Non-material culture is evident in every society and influences our daily lives in profound ways. For example, the belief in democracy and freedom of speech are key aspects of American non-material culture. These values shape the political system and social interactions in the United States. In contrast, the caste system in India is a non-material cultural practice that dictates social hierarchy and relationships within the society. These beliefs and norms are deeply ingrained in the Indian culture and influence various aspects of life.

Interplay Between Material and Non-Material Culture

While material culture and non-material culture are distinct concepts, they are interconnected and influence each other in complex ways. Material objects often reflect the values and beliefs of a society, while non-material culture shapes the creation and use of these objects. For example, the design of a traditional Japanese tea set not only serves a functional purpose but also reflects the cultural values of simplicity, harmony, and respect. Similarly, the language we use to describe objects and practices is influenced by our beliefs and values.

Conclusion

In conclusion, material culture and non-material culture are essential components of human society that shape our behaviors, beliefs, and interactions. While material culture consists of physical objects created by a society, non-material culture encompasses intangible aspects such as beliefs, values, norms, and language. Both material and non-material culture play a crucial role in defining the identity and practices of a society. By understanding the attributes of material and non-material culture, we can gain insights into the complexities of human culture and society.