Exploring the World’s Shared Values: Cultural Universals Examples from Different Societies
As humans, we share a set of common values regardless of our cultural backgrounds. We have developed shared values through our existence as social beings, and though they vary slightly from one society to another, they reflect our innate nature as similar beings. Cultural universals refer to these shared values and practices that you can find in every society worldwide, regardless of the language or location. In this article, we delve into exploring the world’s shared values and highlight some examples of cultural universals from different societies.
Human Language
Language is a fundamental cultural universal that is present in all societies across the world. However, each society has its unique languages and dialects that reflect its culture, history, and environment. Human language serves several purposes, such as communication, expression, and representation. It allows the exchange of thoughts, ideas, and information, making it one of the most critical cultural universals. Examples of languages from different societies include English, Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, and Swahili.
Family and Kinship Systems
Family and kinship systems are essential cultural universals that play a significant role in defining human relationships. The family provides a nurturing space, care, and social support that sustains individual and collective well-being. Family relationships, including marriage, parenthood, and siblinghood, are universal across all societies and cultures. However, the nature of family relationships varies from one society to another. For example, the concept of the extended family is prevalent in African and some Asian societies, while nuclear families are popular in western societies.
Art and Aesthetics
Art and aesthetics are cultural universals that allow us to express ourselves creatively, emotionally, and intellectually. Art covers a broad range of cultural practices and expressions that reflect human creativity. Some forms of art and aesthetics include music, dance, literature, theatre, sculpture, and painting. Art is also an essential component of cultural identity and can serve as a medium for cultural exchange and communication. For example, the traditional dances of the Masai community in Kenya are part of their cultural identity and serve to preserve their traditions and values.
Food and Cuisine
Food is an essential cultural universal that is present in all societies worldwide. It serves the dual purpose of providing nutrition and bringing people together. Food and cuisine are also an important aspect of cultural identity and reflect the region’s climate, geography, and culture. For example, rice is a staple food in many Asian countries such as China, India, and Japan. The Italians are renowned for their pasta and pizza, while African cuisine is famous for its spices and stews.
Conclusion
Cultural universals are an acknowledgment of our shared human experiences across cultures and societies. They serve as a reminder that regardless of our cultural differences, we are more alike than different. The examples above highlight the shared values and practices that you can find across different societies, but the list is not exhaustive. Other cultural universals include religion, gender roles, and games and sports. Understanding cultural universals is crucial for building cultural awareness and sensitivity, promoting diversity and inclusion, and fostering harmonious societal relations.
