How is culture best defined?

Culture is best defined as the totality of learned behaviors. This encompasses the practices, beliefs, values, customs, and social norms that are acquired and transmitted within a society or group. It is not merely a collection of artifacts or achievements but rather the dynamic and evolving ways in which individuals interact, communicate, and understand their world. This definition highlights the importance of social learning and the shared experiences that shape a community’s identity.

In contrast, focusing on laws and regulations suggests a narrow, formal perspective on culture, which does not account for the everyday behaviors and practices that define a group. Similarly, defining culture strictly through academic achievements overlooks the rich tapestry of lived experiences and diverse practices that exist in different societies. Lastly, while historical artifacts are significant, they represent only a glimpse into a culture rather than encompassing the full spectrum of behaviors and practices that individuals exhibit. Thus, the correct definition emphasizes the broader, more inclusive understanding of culture as learned behaviors that are fundamental to social identity.