Understanding Ideal Culture in Sociology: Definition and Insights
Sociology defines culture as the shared beliefs, values, customs, and behaviors of a group of people. Ideal culture, in contrast, refers to the group’s desired norms and values, which may differ from the actual practices of its members. Understanding ideal culture can offer unique insights into the dynamics of society and its members’ desires.
The Differences between Ideal and Real Culture
There is often a significant difference between a group’s ideal culture and its real, or actual, culture. Ideal culture encompasses the shared values and beliefs that group members believe should be upheld, while real culture encompasses the attitudes and behaviors that are actually practiced.
For example, the ideal culture in many societies values equality and fairness. However, the reality is that many societies struggle to fully achieve these ideals, resulting in inequality and discrimination.
Why Ideal Culture Matters
Understanding ideal culture is essential in sociology because it aspects provide insights into society’s goals, values, and aspirations in comparison to its practices. The study of ideal culture can help identify disparities between the group’s values may align with the actual behaviors. These insights can then help to either bring the real culture more closer to the ideal or bring down unrealistic expectations and the issues tied with achieving it.
Examples of Ideal Culture in Society
One example of ideal culture in society is the concept of the American Dream. This ideal suggests that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and dedication. However, research shows that this ideal may not be attainable for everyone due to disparities in economic, educational, racial, and gender opportunities. This realisation has led to a change in attitudes and, now the focus is on equal treatment and opportunities for everyone.
Another example is the ideal culture of gender equality. Many societies value gender equality and equal pay for women’s work like men. Still, the application of this idea is far from being in reality in even the most progressive societies. Understanding these disparities helps identify underlying concerns and promote deliberate change.
Conclusion
Ideal culture tells us what a group is striving for, while real culture tells us what society is actually practicing. Differences between the two offer insights into the gaps and disparities the society is facing and, understanding these disparities inspires positive and deliberate change. The study of ideal culture and its relationship with real culture is significant to sociology as it brings about human nature insights, breaks down stereotypes, and identifies progress in society’s dynamics.
