These are brief explanations to culture questiona nad concepts as studied in sociology at certificate ;evel

1. KENYA MEDICAL TRAINING
COLLEGE – SHIANDA – MUMIAS
CAMPUS
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PROMOTION AND
COMMUNITY HEALTH
CULTURE SAQ ANSWERS
FOR CHA SEPTEMBER 2022 CLASS
PREPARED BY: KEYA HILLARY
(D.EHS, D.HCM, Bsc. HPE)

2. • Cultural relativism is the idea that a person’s
beliefs, values and practices should be
understood based on that person’s own
culture, rather than being judged against the
criteria of another culture. It suggests that
there are no universal standards for
evaluating cultures and what may be
considered acceptable or moral in one culture
may not be in another culture. Cultural
relativism encourages tolerance,
understanding, and respect for diversity
among different cultures.

3. • How does globalization impact cultural diversity
• Positive impacts:
• Exposure to diverse cultures: globalization allows for
increased interaction and exchange of ideas among people
from different cultures, leading to greater appreciation and
understanding of cultural diversity.
• Cultural fusion: globalization can lead to the blending of
cultural elements, resulting in new and dynamic forms of
expression in areas such as music, food, fashion and art.
• Access to information: globalization facilitates the sharing of
information and knowledge, enabling individuals to learn
about and appreciate cultures different from their own.

4. • Negative impacts:
• Cultural homogenization: globalization can lead to
the spread of dominant cultures and the erosion of
local traditions and languages, resulting in cultural
homogenization.
• Loss of traditional practices: the influx of global
media and consumer culture can undermine traditional
values and practices, leading to their decline or
disappearance.
• Cultural imperialism: Powerful countries or
corporations may impose their cultural values and
norms on others through media, advertising and
economic influence, which can undermine local
cultures and identities.

5. Explain the concept of cultural appropriation
• Cultural appropriation refers to the adoption or use of
elements from one culture by members of another
culture, often without understanding or respecting the
significance or context of those elements. This can
include aspects such as clothing, hairstyles, symbols
rituals, music or language. Cultural appropriation
becomes problematic when it involves a power
dynamic, where the dominant culture borrows from
marginalized or oppressed cultures without
acknowledgement or permission and often without
facing the same discrimination or consequences
associated with those cultural practices.

6. What role does language play in
shaping cultural diversity
• Communication and identity: language is a primary means
of communication within a culture, reflecting its unique values,
beliefs and worldview. Different languages often embody
distinct cultural identities and histories, contributing to
richness of cultural diversity
• Preservation of cultural Heritage: languages carry the
stories, traditions and knowledge of a culture from generation
to generation. By preserving and promoting indigenous
languages and dialects, cultural diversity is maintained and
celebrated.
• Expressing cultural concepts and Norms: Languages
contain words, phrases and idioms that express cultural
concepts, emotions and social norms unique to a particular
culture. Understanding these linguistic nuances is essential
for appreciating the depth and complexity of different cultures.

7. CONT…
• Shaping thought and perception: language
influences how people perceive the world
around them and interpret their experiences.
Each language offers a distinct lens through
which speakers view reality, influencing their
beliefs, behaviors and cultural practices.
• Facilitating intercultural understanding:
Multilingualism can foster cross cultural
communication and understanding, breaking
down barriers and promoting empathy and
appreciation for diverse perspectives.

8. Discuss the significance of food in shaping
cultural identity
• Culinary tradition: Food is often deeply rooted in cultural traditions,
passed down through generations and serving as a tangible link to
the past. Traditional recipes, cooking techniques and meal rituals
reflect a culture’s history, geography and values, helping to preserve
and transmit cultural heritage.
• Symbolism and meaning: certain foods and dishes hold symbolic
significance within a culture, representing key events, beliefs, or
values. For example, foods served during religious holidays or
ceremonies often carry spiritual meaning, while dishes prepared for
celebrations or gatherings may symbolize unity, abundance or
hospitality.
• Sense of belonging: sharing meals is a universal human
experience that fosters a sense of belonging and community. In
many cultures, gathering around the table to eat together is a
cherished social ritual, reinforcing bonds among family members
and friends and strengthening cultural identity through shared
experiences.

9. Cont..
• Cultural exchange and fusion: food serves as a
platform for cultural exchange and fusion, as culinary
traditions evolve through contact with other cultures.
Migration, trade and colonization have historically led
to the exchange of ingredients, flavors and cooking
techniques, resulting in the creation of new and
diverse cuisines that reflect hybrid cultural identities.
• Cultural expression and creativity: food is a form of
creative expression, allowing individuals to showcase
their cultural identity through cooking and culinary
innovation. Regional specialties, street food and
gourmet cuisine are all examples of how food reflects
the diversity and creativity of different cultures