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Sociology: A Brief Introduction, 4/e
Richard T. Schaefer, DePaul University
Culture

Internet Exercises

  1. Nonverbal communication is an important element in all cultures. Through gestures and body language, we can express ideas and feelings. As with all elements of culture though, specific forms of nonverbal communication differ among different groups. Visit http://dir.yahoo.com/Arts/ Performing_Arts/Dance/Folk_and_Traditional/ to sample the meanings and forms of dances in differing groups. Choose three of the groups listed on the homepage. Then link to websites dedicated to their folk or traditional forms of dance. For each, answer the following questions:
    1. Does the name of the dance itself hold any special meaning?
    2. What purposes/functions does the dance serve for members of the group?
    3. What is the history or origin of the dance?
    4. Is the dance still performed today? Is it performed at a specific time of year or under certain conditions?
    5. What symbolism and gestures do the dancers use? What ideas and feelings do they try to express?
    6. What similarities and differences among the three groups and dances do you see?
    7. Why would it be good for a social scientist studying dance forms in different cultures to keep in mind the concepts of cultural relativism, ethnocentrism, and culture shock?
  2. Your text offers a contrast of subcultures and countercultures. In general, both groups are segments of society that share distinctive features, such as argots, beliefs, and particular dress codes. However, a counterculture conspicuously and deliberately opposes certain aspects of the larger culture in a way that a subculture does not. To see this difference in action, compare the Amish described through the links found at http://dir.yahoo.com/Society_and_Culture/Religion_and_Spirituality/Faiths_and_Practices/Christianity/Denominations_and_Sects/Amish to street gangs described through the links found at http://dir. yahoo.com/Society_and_Culture/Cultures_and_Groups/Gangs/. For each of the two groups, explore the following:
    1. Identify the argot of the group. Describe some specific examples of special forms of verbal, written, and gestural communication. How are those gestures and words used to communicate? What kinds of messages are sent through the argot? In what ways can a subculture or counterculture make use of an argot to build solidarity among its members, while at the same time keeping outsiders at a distance?
    2. What special clothing or dress codes are used? What symbols and messages do members communicate through clothing? What purpose does specialized dress serve for the group?
    3. What are some of the special practices or beliefs of the group? Do these beliefs or practices put the group at odds with the larger culture? How so?
    4. What purpose or meaning can being a member of the group have for those who belong?
    5. Draw some comparisons and contrasts between the two groups. What do the Amish and street gangs have in common? In what ways are they different? Why would the Amish be labeled a subculture, but street gangs a counterculture? Do you agree with these labels? Why or why not?








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