CULTURAL EVOLUTION Meaning and
Definition
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Cultural Evolution refers to the gradual change and development of human societies and cultures over time. It is a process by which cultural traits, knowledge, behaviors, and norms are transmitted, modified, and passed down from one generation to the next. Cultural evolution encompasses both the tangible and intangible aspects of a society, including its language, beliefs, customs, traditions, technologies, arts, and institutions.
This concept argues that cultural change exhibits patterns and mechanisms akin to biological evolution, albeit at a different level. It suggests that cultural traits evolve and adapt to new circumstances in response to human interaction, environmental changes, and other factors, much like biological organisms do. Just as genetic variation drives natural selection in biological evolution, cultural variation drives the selection and propagation of certain cultural traits, leading to changes in societal norms, values, and practices over time.
Cultural evolution can take place through several mechanisms, such as innovation, cultural diffusion, assimilation, and societal adaptation. Innovation involves the creation of new cultural ideas, practices, or technologies. Cultural diffusion occurs through the spread of these innovations between different communities, often facilitated by trade, migration, or communication. Assimilation refers to the absorption of cultural traits by a society from another culture. Societal adaptation occurs when cultures modify their behaviors and practices to better suit their environment or changing circumstances.
Understanding and studying cultural evolution is essential to comprehend how humans have evolved over time, helping to explain the diversity and complexity of different societies. It provides insights into the mechanisms by which cultural change occurs and the social dynamics that shape human civilizations.
Common Misspellings for CULTURAL EVOLUTION
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Etymology of CULTURAL EVOLUTION
The word "cultural" originated from the Latin word "cultura", which means cultivation or tending. It evolved in English to refer to the ideas, customs, and social behavior of a particular group or society. The term "evolution" stems from the Latin word "evolutio", which means an unrolling or unfolding. It later developed in the context of biological sciences, referring to the process of gradual development or change over time. The combination of these two terms, "cultural evolution", emerged to describe the idea that cultural traits, such as customs, ideas, and practices, can change and develop over time in a manner similar to biological evolution.
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