Question
This is a quick breakdown of what you′re being asked to do for the Midterm Essay: Format: Typed,12pt Times New Roman font, double-spaced with 1-inch margins all around Name, date, class & assignment in upper left corner, on page 1 only - NOT as a header function Last name and page number in the upper right corner as a repeating HEADER Title– centered (no bold, italics, underline, fancy font, etc, needed) Tone/Style Elements: Proper spelling & grammar – please proofread for academic standards before submitting Clear, concise, & specific language Evidence of thought given to the essay’s purpose, arrangement of paragraphs, & style of writing Requirements: A minimum of 1000 words A definition of culture in your own words & a discussion of why knowing who/where/what your cultural identity is matters. Discussion of what you consider to be the three most important of the following nine microcultures in terms of your own cultural identity: Race Ethnicity Gender/Sex Religion Language Sexual orientation Age/Generation (baby boomer, millennial, Gen X, Y, Z, etc.) Economic Class/status Ability/Exceptionality Assignment Explanation: Horace Miner’s “Body Ritual Among the Nacirema” allows us to look at our own culture in a way that we as native anthropologists (someone studying his or her own culture) might not fully be able to do. It also allows us to consider how our own cultural norms & views affect our understanding & perception of other cultures, in addition to looking at what assumptions we make about other cultures. Various cultural forces affect each of us – these are called microcultures, or subcultures. Race, Ethnicity, Gender/Sex, Religion – these are all microcultures of humanity, just to name a few. Within each of these microcultures, there are multiple subgroups. One subgroup will be dominant; the dominant subgroup defines what is “normal” for that microculture, and all the other subgroups within that microculture are defined against “what’s normal.” No matter who you are or where you come from, you belong to each of these microcultures, and no matter who you are, you will most likely belong to the dominant subgroup in some microcultures and a subordinate subgroup in others. How you fall in the dominant or subordinate categories will affect not only your behavior in that category, but also how you view yourself. For this assignment, I′m asking you to examine your own cultural identity in relation to these microcultures. This isn′t a typical autobiography that asks when you were born or what you were like as a child. It doesn′t ask you to recount major life events. Instead, I want you to think about how your cultural makeup has affected your beliefs & identity. Start writing about your cultural identity by figuring out where you stand in the three microcultures you have chosen to discuss, and by the time you get finished, you should have a pretty good idea of how your positions in the various microcultures combine to make up the uniqueness that is you. For a full breakdown of the assignment, including a suggested outline to follow for writing essay, please download the assignment sheet attached below. HUMA 2323 - Cultural Identity Midterm Essay Sheet - current.docx Here are some questions to help you start thinking about your identity in relation to the nine microcultures. To figure out your identity, consider your answers to the following questions in relation to the 9 microcultures: This is the identity I am most aware of at home. This is the identity I am most aware of at work/school. This is the identity I know the most about. This is the identity I know the least about. This is the identity I tend to keep hidden. This is the identity I most like to share with others. This is the identity I think about most often. This is the identity I think about the least. When I think of my friends, this is the identity that we have most in common. When I think of my friends, this is the identity that we have the least in common. This is the identity I am most unsure of how to talk about. This is the identity that I think most people judge me by. This is the identity that brings me the most joy. This is the identity that brings me the most struggle, pain, challenge and/or concern. This is the identity I believe is the most important to me right now, in this room/at this moment. Below are two examples of the Cultural Identity Midterm Essay for this class. They are both student-written pieces that were done for previous versions of this class. Please note: Neither is a perfect, 100% essay - there are errors in format, citation, etc., but they represent what I expect of A-level &/or B-level work for my classes. Both were written for previous versions of the class; as such, they may have had slightly different requirements or standards. You are required to follow the requirements/standards set in the assignment sheet existing for this class.
Exploring Cultural Identity: Unraveling the Influence of Microcultures
Culture is the essence that shapes our beliefs, values, and behaviors, providing us with a sense of belonging and identity. Understanding our cultural identity is crucial as it forms the lens through which we perceive the world and interact with others. This essay delves into the significance of cultural identity by examining three key microcultures that have profoundly impacted my sense of self. By exploring the microcultures of race, religion, and gender/sex, we gain insight into how these facets shape our identities and influence our interactions with others. The microcultures of race, religion, and gender/sex have had the most profound impact on my cultural identity, as they have influenced my beliefs, values, and interactions with others, ultimately shaping the unique individual that I am today.
Race is a fundamental aspect of our cultural identities, influencing our self-perception and the way others perceive us. Within a racial microculture, the dominant position dictates societal norms and what is considered "normal." As a person of mixed heritage, I have often found myself straddling multiple subgroups within the racial microculture, which has shaped my understanding of diversity and cultivated a profound respect for various cultures and perspectives. The significance of embracing bi-racial identity as a means of acknowledging and celebrating the fusion of multiple cultures. Navigating the complexities of my dual heritage has allowed me to recognize the beauty that lies in embracing different cultural backgrounds.
Growing up, I encountered unique challenges in navigating my racial identity, particularly in a society that often expects individuals to conform to predetermined racial categories. However, this experience has provided me with a valuable perspective on the richness of diversity. The importance of multicultural education in promoting inclusivity and understanding among diverse racial groups. By embracing my mixed heritage, I have developed a deep appreciation for the multitude of cultures that have contributed to my identity. This understanding has not only enriched my own sense of self but has also fostered empathy and respect for individuals from various racial backgrounds.
My religious identity has emerged as a source of strength, guiding my actions and promoting an ethos of tolerance and understanding. Being a member of a religious minority has allowed me to navigate the complexities of the dominant religious microculture, where certain practices, traditions, and beliefs are considered normative. In this subordinate position, I have gained insight into the experiences of marginalized individuals and have come to appreciate the importance of empathy and respect for diverse perspectives. Understanding the challenges faced by those with differing beliefs has nurtured my ability to foster genuine connections and bridge gaps between different religious communities.
My religious identity has become an integral aspect of my cultural makeup, shaping not only my personal beliefs but also my interactions with others. It serves as a moral compass, guiding my actions and encouraging compassion, kindness, and inclusivity. Through my religious beliefs, I have developed a deep appreciation for the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their faith or background. This has instilled in me a strong commitment to promoting understanding and fostering harmony among diverse religious communities. By acknowledging and honoring the diverse religious experiences and perspectives of others, I strive to contribute to a more inclusive and harmonious society.
In patriarchal societies, a dominant position assigns gender roles and establishes societal norms that frequently reinforce stereotypes and perpetuate inequalities. As a woman, I have been driven by a deep determination to challenge these societal norms and advocate for gender equality, empowering not only myself but also those around me. Embracing my gender identity has allowed me to recognize the significance of inclusivity and the need to dismantle gender-based barriers. Through my personal experiences and encounters with gender inequality, I have developed a heightened sense of empathy and an unwavering commitment to championing the rights and empowerment of women.
Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, I strive to create spaces where individuals of all gender identities feel respected and valued. By actively listening to diverse voices and amplifying marginalized perspectives, I contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding gender equality. Moreover, I am dedicated to educating myself and others about the intersectionality of gender with other aspects of identity, such as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Understanding these intersections enables me to challenge the interconnected systems of oppression that affect individuals in multifaceted ways.
Cultural identity plays a significant role in shaping how we present ourselves to others, extending beyond the mere influence on our beliefs and values. It encompasses the way we dress, speak, and carry ourselves, all of which are influenced by societal perceptions and expectations. The lens through which society views a particular cultural identity can lead individuals to adjust their behavior and appearance in order to conform or challenge these perceptions. For instance, in a society that favors a specific aesthetic or set of norms, individuals may feel compelled to modify their style and mannerisms to align with the dominant cultural narrative. On the other hand, some individuals may choose to embrace their cultural identity authentically, regardless of societal expectations, as a means of self-expression and empowerment.
Embracing my cultural identity has been a transformative journey towards self-acceptance and sharing my unique perspectives with the world. It has allowed me to recognize the beauty and strengths within my cultural heritage while embracing the complexities that make me who I am. Through my unapologetic self-expression, I hope to contribute to a society that values and celebrates the rich tapestry of cultural diversity, fostering understanding and respect among individuals from various backgrounds.
Our cultural identity significantly impacts the way we perceive and engage with others, profoundly influencing our understanding, empathy, and capacity to navigate diverse cultural contexts. When engaging in self-reflection, I have realized the importance of acknowledging and challenging the biases and assumptions I may hold. This awareness has enabled me to approach interactions with humility and an open mind, recognizing that my cultural lens may limit my understanding of others' experiences. For instance, growing up in a predominantly homogenous community, I had limited exposure to different cultures and perspectives. However, through self-reflection and a commitment to learning, I have broadened my worldview, allowing me to embrace diversity and interact with others in a more inclusive and respectful manner. Through self-reflection, awareness of biases, and a commitment to understanding, we can foster empathy, bridge cultural gaps, and cultivate respect for the multitude of human experiences.
Engaging in self-reflective work to examine our cultural identity is of paramount importance. By unraveling the multifaceted layers of our identity, we cultivate a heightened sensitivity to the realities of others. Understanding our cultural identity equips us with the tools to foster empathy, bridge cultural gaps, and promote inclusivity. It empowers us to challenge stereotypes, dismantling barriers, and embracing the diversity that enriches our societies. Knowing our cultural identity is not only personally significant but also crucial for building a more harmonious and inclusive world. By embracing our own cultural identities, we encourage others to do the same, fostering mutual respect and appreciation for the diverse tapestry of humanity.