Culture and Custom

a person who challenges or rejects established beliefs, customs, or values, often with the intent to provoke change or expose flaws

The philosopher was an iconoclast, questioning every moral assumption of his time.

the rejection or destruction of religious images as heretical

The Byzantine Iconoclasm of the 8th and 9th centuries was a period of religious controversy and conflict characterized by the destruction of religious images and icons.

the customs and values of a society that characterize it

The mores of a traditional society often dictate strict gender roles and expectations for behavior.

the in-depth study of people and cultures through direct observation and interaction

The anthropologist conducted ethnography in a remote Amazonian tribe, living with the community to document their customs and traditions.

a social and cultural movement that emerges in opposition to prevailing mainstream norms, values, and practices

The Beat Generation of the 1950s and 1960s is considered a counterculture movement, rejecting conventional norms through literature, art, and lifestyle.

a natural object, often an animal or plant, that is considered sacred and serves as a symbol or emblem for a particular group, clan, or family

The totem of the tribe, a majestic eagle, stood tall as a symbol of unity and shared ancestry.

an exaggerated gesture, speech pattern, or style intended to create an effect or impression

She exaggerated the hand gestures as a mannerism for comedic effect.

the state or quality of adhering to accepted practices or norms

The conventionality of the ceremony reflected longstanding tradition.

a formal statement of beliefs or principles, often religious or philosophical in nature

The Nicene Creed is a well-known Christian credo that articulates fundamental beliefs about the nature of God and Christ.

a guiding principle, intended to provide moral guidance or a basis for behavior

"Honesty is the best policy" is a precept often emphasized to instill the value of truthfulness in individuals.

the elaborate display or ceremonial spectacle associated with public events, celebrations, or formal occasions

The opening ceremony of the Olympics is a dazzling display of pageantry, featuring artistic performances and the parade of participating nations.

the merging of diverse cultural elements, styles, or traditions to create something unique

The city's fashion scene reflects a syncretism of global styles and local traditions.

the belief that cultural diversity within a society should be respected

Multiculturalism celebrates the richness of cultural diversity and recognizes the contributions of different ethnic, religious, and linguistic groups to society.

a group within a larger culture that shares distinctive values, norms, and behaviors, often differing from those of the dominant culture

The goth subculture, characterized by its dark fashion and music preferences, often congregates in alternative clubs and events.

the traditional beliefs, customs, stories, and legends of a particular community, usually passed down through generations by word of mouth

Folklore encompasses a wide range of cultural expressions, including myths, legends, fairy tales, folk songs, and folk dances.

an elegant gathering or party that is usually held in the evening

The ambassador hosted a lavish soiree at the embassy, inviting diplomats, dignitaries, and local elites.

the practice of marrying within one's own social, ethnic, or cultural group

In some communities, endogamy is encouraged to preserve cultural traditions.

the act of sticking to old customs and ceremonies in a culture, focusing on doing things the traditional way

The tribal ritualism included dancing around the fire to appease the gods.

the belief in spirits residing within natural elements, objects, and living beings

Animism is evident in cultures where natural elements, like trees or rivers, are believed to possess spiritual significance.

related to a cultural system where lineage and inheritance are traced through the mother's side of the family

In matrilineal tribes, inheritance comes from mothers.

related to a cultural system where lineage and inheritance are traced through the father's side of the family

In a patrilineal society, family lineage is determined by the father's side.

relating to the process of acquiring or adapting to the cultural norms, customs, and practices of a different or dominant culture

Studying abroad offers acculturational experiences in different cultures.