Understanding Culture
To understand culture is really to understand ourselves. We have commonly used this term to describe all that people have, think, and do as members of their society. While a number of principles and functions apply to this broad, general discipline, we still think primarily about material objects; ideas, values, and attitudes; and expected patterns of behavior among those with whom we live and identify.
What is Culture?
Presented by James O'Rourke
We’ll offer some definitions about the boundaries and nature of culture, along with its basic characteristics.
Run time: 5 minutes
Applying What We Know About Culture
Presented by James O'Rourke
Culture isn’t part of our human DNA, but it certainly is universal to human societies. What we think of as culture is both learned and constantly in a state of change.
Run time: 6 minutes
The Value and Complexity of Culture
Presented by James O'Rourke
Cultures vary in complexity and are, at their root, based on societal values. Among the more basic truths of culture is that it is not value-neutral.
Run time: 4 minutes
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Presented by James O'Rourke
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Featured Speakers:
- Chris Murphy, VP of Corporate Communications at AT&T
- James S. O’Rourke, American rhetorician and Professor of Management at the University of Notre Dame.
- Amanda McKendree, Arthur F. and Mary J. O’Neil Director of the Fanning Center for Business Communication, Associate Teaching Professor, University of Notre Dame.
