CULTURALLY DETERMINED Meaning and
Definition
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Culturally determined refers to attitudes, beliefs, values, behaviors, or practices that are influenced or shaped by the cultural context in which individuals live. It suggests that certain aspects of human experience are not only influenced by an individual's genetic makeup or personal preferences, but are instead primarily dictated by the cultural norms, customs, and socialization processes of a particular society.
This term implies that cultural factors play a crucial role in shaping human behavior and shaping the ways people perceive and interpret the world around them. It emphasizes the idea that different cultures have distinct ways of thinking, behaving, and organizing social life, and thus individuals' attitudes and behaviors are largely shaped by the cultural environment they are immersed in.
Cultural determinism suggests that cultural factors have the power to shape individuals' identities, perceptions, and values, as well as influence their choices and decision-making processes. It recognizes that cultural norms and practices exist on a continuum, ranging from those that are deeply ingrained and unquestioned, to those that are more flexible and open to change.
Understanding the concept of cultural determinism requires acknowledging that individuals are not solely independent agents, but are also products of the cultural influences surrounding them. By considering the impact of one's cultural context, this concept provides insight into how and why individuals from different cultural backgrounds may hold distinct beliefs, behave differently, and perceive the world in varied ways.
Etymology of CULTURALLY DETERMINED
The word "culturally determined" does not have a specific etymology. It is a combination of two separate terms, "culturally" and "determined".
- "Culturally" comes from the Latin word "cultura", meaning "cultivation" or "tending". It entered the English language in the 19th century, referring to the ideas, customs, and social behavior of a particular group or society.
- "Determined" originated from the Latin word "determinare", which means "to set boundaries" or "to settle". In English, it has been used since the 14th century, meaning to come to a decision or to establish something conclusively.
When used together, "culturally determined" implies that something is influenced or shaped by the specific cultural context in which it exists.
