Tylor's Definition of Culture: An Overview

Edward Burnett Tylor (1832-1917) was a prominent anthropologist known as the “father of anthropology.” His work laid the foundation for the study of culture, and he played a crucial role in shaping our understanding of this complex concept. Tylor’s definition of culture emphasized its comprehensive nature, encompassing various aspects of human society. This article explores Tylor’s definition of culture and its key characteristics.

Tylor’s Definition of Culture

Tylor defined culture as a multifaceted concept that includes knowledge, beliefs, art, law, morals, customs, and other acquired capabilities. According to Tylor, culture is the “complex whole” that encompasses all aspects of human life within a society. It is the shared framework that shapes the behavior, beliefs, and values of individuals within a particular group.

Over time, the concept of culture has expanded to include learned behaviors and symbols that allow people to live in groups. It is through culture that humans adapt to their environments and develop unique ways of life. Tylor’s definition laid the groundwork for understanding culture as a dynamic and evolving system.

The Six Aspects of Culture

Tylor’s definition of culture can be further understood by considering its six key aspects:

Learned: Culture is not innate; it is taught and acquired from one generation to another. Through the process of enculturation, individuals learn the beliefs, values, and practices of their society. Cultural knowledge is transmitted through various means, such as language, education, and socialization.
Shared: Culture is characterized by shared norms and values within a group. Norms define the expected behavior and guide individuals’ actions, while values represent what is considered true, right, and beautiful. These shared norms and values create a sense of cohesion and identity within a cultural group.
Symbolic: Culture is deeply symbolic, creating meaning and shaping the way individuals perceive and interpret the world. Symbols, including language, art, rituals, and gestures, play a crucial role in expressing and transmitting cultural meanings. They serve as a means of communication and representation within a cultural context.
Patterned: Culture is an integrated system with interconnected elements. Changes in one area of culture can have ripple effects on other aspects. For example, changes in technology can lead to shifts in social organization or belief systems. Culture exhibits patterns and structures that help maintain its coherence and stability.
Adaptive: Culture is the primary way in which humans adapt to their environment. It encompasses the knowledge, skills, and practices that allow individuals to survive and thrive in their specific ecological and social contexts. However, it is essential to note that cultural adaptations may not always be beneficial in the long term.
Changes: Culture is not static but constantly evolves and transforms over time. It responds to internal and external influences, such as social, economic, and technological changes. New ideas, beliefs, and practices emerge, while others may become obsolete or modified. Culture is a dynamic process of continuity and change.

Tylor’s definition of culture provides a framework for understanding the complex and multifaceted nature of human societies. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of various cultural elements and highlights the dynamic nature of cultural systems. By examining the six aspects of culture, we gain insights into how culture shapes human behavior, beliefs, and values within a specific social context.

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FAQs

What is Edward Burnett Tylor known for in anthropology?

Edward Burnett Tylor is known as the “father of anthropology” and made significant contributions to the field. He played a crucial role in shaping our understanding of culture and is well-known for his comprehensive definition of culture.

How did Tylor define culture?

Tylor defined culture as a comprehensive concept that encompasses various aspects of human society, including knowledge, beliefs, art, law, morals, customs, and other acquired capabilities. He viewed culture as the shared framework that shapes the behavior, beliefs, and values of individuals within a particular group.

How has the concept of culture expanded over time?

Over time, the concept of culture has been expanded to include learned behaviors and symbols that allow people to live in groups. Culture is seen as the primary means by which humans adapt to their environments and the way of life characteristic of a particular group of humans.

What are the key characteristics of Tylor’s definition of culture?

Tylor’s definition of culture can be understood by considering its six key characteristics:

Learned: Culture is taught and acquired from one generation to another.
Shared: Culture is characterized by shared norms and values within a group.
Symbolic: Culture creates meaning and is expressed through symbols.
Patterned: Culture is an integrated system with interconnected elements.
Adaptive: Culture is the way humans adapt to their environment.
Changes: Culture is not static but constantly evolves and transforms over time.

How does culture shape human behavior and beliefs?

Culture plays a significant role in shaping human behavior and beliefs within a specific social context. It provides individuals with a shared framework of norms, values, and symbols that guide their actions and shape their worldview. Cultural practices and beliefs influence various aspects of human life, such as social interactions, decision-making, and identity formation.

What is the significance of Tylor’s definition of culture in anthropology?

Tylor’s definition of culture laid the foundation for the study of culture in anthropology. His comprehensive perspective highlighted the complexity and interconnectedness of cultural phenomena. Tylor’s work contributed to the development of anthropological theories and methods that continue to shape the discipline today.