Discovering the Unseen: Cultural Divergence Examples From Around the World
Culture, the sum of beliefs, customs, and traditions of a specific group of people, has been a fascinating subject of study for ages. It not only highlights the uniqueness of a particular society but also provides valuable insights into the way individuals of a given group perceive their world. Culture is not only seen in the way people dress, the food they eat, or the language they speak, but it also encompasses beliefs, values, and traditions that have been passed down from one generation to another. In this article, we will explore the concept of cultural divergence and provide specific examples from around the world.
Cultural Divergence: Understanding the Concept
Cultural divergence refers to the process by which a culture starts to become distinct and different from other cultures over time. During this process, the beliefs, values, customs, and even the language of a particular culture evolve to form its unique identity. This divergence can occur due to various reasons ranging from geographical isolation to technological advancements that make communication with the outside world difficult.
Take the example of the indigenous people of the Amazon rainforest. Due to their isolation from the modern world, they have managed to preserve their culture and traditions for centuries. They possess an intricate knowledge of medicinal plants, which they use to treat various ailments. Moreover, their unique way of life, including their language and ceremonies, has remained unchanged for hundreds of years.
Examples of Cultural Divergence from Around the World
Let’s examine some specific examples of cultural divergence from different parts of the world:
The Amish of the United States
The Amish are a religious group that originated in Switzerland in the 16th century. They migrated to the United States in the early 18th century to escape persecution. The Amish have managed to maintain their traditional way of life and technology at a minimum. They still prefer to use horse-drawn carriages, and their community is based on agriculture. They believe in a simple way of life centered around family, community, and God, which has remained unchanged for centuries.
Tibetan People
Tibetan culture is unique in its religious practices, architecture, and art. The Tibetan people’s customs and traditions are deeply rooted in Buddhism, and their way of life is centered around their religious beliefs. They have maintained their unique identity despite being surrounded by the dominant Chinese culture. Tibetan architecture, notably the monasteries, has been influenced by their religious beliefs and is unlike any other in the world.
Maori People of New Zealand
The Maori are the indigenous people of New Zealand who migrated there from Polynesia around 1000 years ago. Their culture is centered around their spiritual beliefs, which they refer to as ‘mauri,’ referring to the essential life force of all things. They have managed to maintain their language, art, and way of life despite the influence of western culture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cultural diversity provides insights into the unique identity of different societies worldwide. Cultural Divergence, as discussed in this article, is a natural process by which a particular culture becomes distinct from other cultures over time. Examples from different parts of the world, including the indigenous people of the Amazon rainforest, the Amish of the United States, the Tibetan people, and the Maori people of New Zealand, demonstrate this phenomenon. Respect and appreciation for cultural diversity can help to build a more peaceful and tolerant world where differences are celebrated rather than snuffed out.
