Understanding Dominant Culture: Definition and Characteristics

Every society has its own culture that shapes the ways in which people think, interact, and behave. In some societies, there is a dominant culture that influences the behavior and beliefs of the majority of people. Understanding dominant culture is important for understanding the social norms of a society and for navigating social situations. In this article, we will define dominant culture and explore its key characteristics.

Defining Dominant Culture

Dominant culture refers to the beliefs, values, and norms that are shared by the majority of people in a society. These beliefs, values, and norms are often perpetuated through social institutions such as families, schools, churches, and the media. Dominant culture sets the standard for how people should behave, what is considered acceptable behavior, and what is considered taboo. It also influences the language people use, the way they dress, and the way they interact with others.

Characteristics of Dominant Culture

There are a number of key characteristics that are associated with dominant culture. These include:

Hegemony

Hegemony refers to the dominance or influence that one group has over others. In the case of dominant culture, the majority group holds power and influence over other groups within the society. This can lead to the marginalization of minority groups and the perpetuation of inequality.

Hierarchical Structure

Dominate culture often has a hierarchical structure, in which some individuals or groups are valued more than others. This can include differences based on race, class, gender, and sexual orientation. Those who do not fit the dominant mold may be excluded or discriminated against.

Normalization

One of the defining characteristics of dominant culture is that it is often seen as the norm or the default. This means that those who do not conform to dominant culture may be seen as deviant or abnormal. As a result, people may feel pressure to assimilate in order to be accepted.

Resistance

Despite its dominance, dominant culture is never completely hegemonic. There are always individuals and groups who resist or challenge the dominant norms and values. This can take the form of social movements, protests, or individual acts of non-conformity. Such resistance is important for promoting social change and creating a more inclusive society.

Examples of Dominant Culture

One example of dominant culture in the United States is white, middle-class culture. This culture is perpetuated through social institutions such as the family, schools, and the media. It is characterized by values such as individualism, competition, and material success. Those who do not conform to white, middle-class culture may be marginalized and excluded.

Another example of dominant culture is heteronormativity. Heteronormativity refers to the assumption that heterosexuality is the default and that other forms of sexuality are deviant or abnormal. This can lead to discrimination and marginalization of those who identify as LGBTQ+.

Conclusion

Understanding dominant culture is important for understanding the social norms of a society and for navigating social situations. Dominant culture refers to the beliefs, values, and norms that are shared by the majority of people in a society. Its characteristics include hegemony, hierarchical structure, normalization, and resistance. Examples of dominant culture in the United States include white, middle-class culture and heteronormativity. By understanding dominant culture, we can work towards creating a more inclusive society that values diversity and promotes social justice.