Elements of Culture

Language One unifying element of culture is language. The world’s languages are organized into language families, large groups of languages having similar roots.

Religion In many cultures religious beliefs influence certain aspects of daily life. Throughout history religious symbols and stories have shaped the arts and architecture. Religious differences have been the root of conflicts in many countries.

Social Groups Cultures have social systems that include families, social classes, and ethnic groups.

Government Despite differences, governments of the world share certain features, such as maintaining internal order, providing for defense, and supplying public services.

Economic Activities Geographer study economics to see how people in different cultures produce, obtain, use, and sell goods and services.

Culture Regions Generally includes different countries that share certain characteristics-economic systems, languages, forms of government, or social groups.