1.2 Historical and cultural perspectives on sexuality

Sexuality has been shaped by historical and cultural forces throughout human history. From ancient civilizations to modern societies, attitudes and practices have evolved, reflecting changing values and social norms. Understanding these perspectives helps us grasp the complex nature of human sexuality.

Cultural differences play a significant role in shaping sexual attitudes and behaviors. What's considered normal or taboo varies widely across societies, influencing everything from gender roles to sexual expression. Exploring these diverse perspectives broadens our understanding of human sexuality's multifaceted nature.

Understanding the concept of "culture"

Defining culture and its components

Top images from around the web for Defining culture and its components

• 

  Culture, Theology, and Exegesis | LGBTQ+ Studies: An Open Textbook View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Difference Between Culture and Custom | Definition, Relatonship, Differences View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Socialization and Human Sexuality | Boundless Sociology View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Culture, Theology, and Exegesis | LGBTQ+ Studies: An Open Textbook View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Difference Between Culture and Custom | Definition, Relatonship, Differences View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Defining culture and its components

• 

  Culture, Theology, and Exegesis | LGBTQ+ Studies: An Open Textbook View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Difference Between Culture and Custom | Definition, Relatonship, Differences View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Socialization and Human Sexuality | Boundless Sociology View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Culture, Theology, and Exegesis | LGBTQ+ Studies: An Open Textbook View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Difference Between Culture and Custom | Definition, Relatonship, Differences View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Culture encompasses shared beliefs, values, customs, behaviors, and artifacts characterizing a group or society
• Includes both material (physical objects) and non-material (ideas, attitudes, beliefs) elements
• Transmitted from one generation to the next through socialization and learning
• Dynamic and constantly evolving in response to internal and external influences
• Shapes individual and collective identities, influencing how people perceive and interact with the world

Functions and importance of culture

• Provides a sense of belonging and social cohesion within a group
• Guides behavior and sets expectations for social interactions
• Helps individuals make sense of the world and their place in it
• Influences decision-making processes and problem-solving approaches
• Facilitates communication through shared language and symbols
• Contributes to the development of social institutions (family, education, government)
• Plays a crucial role in shaping moral and ethical standards within a society

Cultural diversity and relativism

• Cultural diversity refers to the variety of different cultures co-existing within a larger society
• Cultural relativism advocates understanding and evaluating cultural practices within their own context
• Challenges ethnocentrism, the tendency to judge other cultures based on one's own cultural standards
• Promotes tolerance and respect for cultural differences
• Recognizes that cultural practices may have different meanings and significance across societies
• Encourages critical examination of one's own cultural biases and assumptions
• Supports the preservation of unique cultural traditions and practices

Cultural differences in communication styles

Verbal communication patterns

• High-context vs low-context communication styles differ in reliance on implicit vs explicit information
• Direct vs indirect communication approaches vary in how messages are conveyed and interpreted
• Formal vs informal language use reflects cultural norms and social hierarchies
• Turn-taking patterns in conversation differ across cultures (interruptions, pauses, silence)
• Use of honorifics and formal address varies (Japanese keigo system)
• Humor and sarcasm may be interpreted differently across cultures

Non-verbal communication variations

• Gestures and body language carry different meanings across cultures (thumbs-up gesture)
• Personal space preferences vary (closer in Latin American cultures, more distant in Northern European cultures)
• Eye contact norms differ (prolonged eye contact viewed positively in Western cultures, disrespectful in some Asian cultures)
• Touch and physical contact acceptability varies (hugging, kissing as greetings)
• Facial expressions and emotional display rules differ (Japanese concept of honne and tatemae)
• Paralanguage elements like tone, pitch, and volume have cultural variations

Communication norms in different contexts

• Business communication styles vary (formal presentations in Germany, relationship-building in China)
• Academic discourse norms differ across cultures (linear vs circular argumentation)
• Family communication patterns reflect cultural values (hierarchical vs egalitarian)
• Gender-based communication norms exist in many cultures (speaking order, topics of discussion)
• Digital communication etiquette varies across cultures (emoji usage, response times)
• Conflict resolution approaches differ (direct confrontation vs indirect harmonization)

The impact of globalization on culture

Cultural homogenization and hybridization

• Globalization leads to increased cultural exchange and blending
• Western cultural influences spread globally through media and technology (Hollywood movies)
• Local cultures adapt and incorporate global elements, creating hybrid forms (Bollywood films)
• Global brands and products become part of local cultural landscapes (McDonald's in Japan)
• Language borrowing and mixing occur (Spanglish, Franglais)
• Fashion trends spread rapidly across borders, influencing local styles
• Global youth culture emerges, transcending national boundaries

Preservation of cultural identity

• Efforts to maintain traditional practices and customs intensify in response to globalization
• Cultural heritage preservation initiatives gain importance (UNESCO World Heritage Sites)
• Revival of indigenous languages and cultural practices (Maori language in New Zealand)
• Emphasis on local and regional cuisines as a form of cultural resistance (Slow Food movement)
• Cultural festivals and events celebrate and promote local traditions
• National policies aim to protect and promote cultural industries (French cinema quotas)
• Digital technologies used to document and preserve cultural heritage (virtual museums)

Economic and technological impacts

• Global trade influences local economies and traditional livelihoods
• Tourism industry affects local cultures, both positively and negatively (cultural commodification)
• Digital platforms enable global cultural exchange and exposure (YouTube, social media)
• Remote work and digital nomadism create new forms of cultural interaction
• E-commerce facilitates access to cultural products from around the world
• Cultural industries adapt to global markets (K-pop's international success)
• Technological advancements influence traditional cultural practices (3D printing in crafts)