Cultural Norms & Values in the African-American Population: Definition, History, and Characteristics
Cultural norms and values are an integral part of any society. They are the shared beliefs and practices that define a group of people and help them to make sense of the world around them. This paper will explore the cultural norms and values of the African-American population, including their definition, history, and characteristics.
Definition
Cultural norms and values are the shared beliefs and patterns of behavior of a particular group of people that shape how they interact with one another and understand the world around them. This includes beliefs about social roles, language, religion, and relationships, as well as values such as loyalty, respect, and responsibility. It is important to note that cultural norms and values are not static; they evolve over time as individuals’ experiences and circumstances change.
History
The African-American population has a long and complicated history that has shaped their cultural norms and values. During the slavery period, African-Americans were viewed as property and treated as such. This led to a culture of survival, where individuals had to rely on their own ingenuity and resilience to make it through the day. This culture of resilience has been passed down through generations and is still seen today in the African-American population. Additionally, the African-American population experienced a period of Reconstruction after the Civil War, during which they had to rebuild their lives and their culture. This period of rebuilding led to a strong emphasis on family and community, as well as the development of a unique and vibrant culture.
Characteristics
African-American culture is characterized by a strong emphasis on family and community. This is reflected in a shared sense of responsibility to one another and a commitment to helping others in need. Additionally, African-American culture is known for its emphasis on creativity and expression. This is seen in the vibrant music, art, and literature that has come out of the African-American community. Finally, African-American culture is characterized by a strong faith in God, which is reflected in religious practices and beliefs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cultural norms and values are an integral part of any society, and the African-American population is no exception. Their cultural norms and values are shaped by their unique history and include a strong emphasis on family and community, creativity and expression, and faith in God. Understanding the cultural norms and values of the African-American population is essential for creating a more just and equitable world.
References
Alston, R. (2000). African-American culture: A history of resilience and resistance. New York, NY: Routledge.
Capehart, J. (Ed.). (2005). African-American culture and heritage in U.S. education. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield.
Harris, S. (2005). African-American culture: An overview. In J. Capehart (Ed.), African-American culture and heritage in U.S. education (pp. 81–91). Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield.
King, J. (2013). African-American culture: An overview. In S. Taylor (Ed.), The Oxford handbook of African-American citizenship, 1865-present (pp. 15–30). New York, NY: Oxford University Press.