How can culture be defined?

Culture can be defined as practices acquired through learning from others because it emphasizes the interactive and dynamic nature of cultural development. Culture is not static; it evolves as individuals and groups engage with each other, share experiences, and learn from various influences, including other societies and environments. This learning process can include language, customs, social behaviors, and norms that are transmitted from one generation to another or even adapted from external influences.

The focus on learning underlines that culture is a social construct, shaped by historical contexts, interactions, and adaptations rather than merely inherited traits or unchanged traditions. This understanding of culture allows for a broader recognition of its complexities and the ways in which individuals can actively participate in and reshape their cultural identities. Additionally, it acknowledges that cultures are not homogeneous; different individuals or groups within a culture may interpret or practice elements of their culture in diverse ways.