Final answer:
Cultural transmission is the process by which individuals learn the values, beliefs, and social norms of their culture, supporting the continuity of cultures across generations while also allowing for evolution and diversity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cultural transmission provides for inter-generational transmission of culture and shapes the image that we have of ourselves. It is through cultural transmission that people come to learn the values, beliefs, and social norms of their culture. This process not only preserves the unique aspects of a culture by passing it on to future generations but also allows for evolution through innovation and cultural diffusion.
Cultures are dynamic social constructions that change as society evolves. However, certain aspects such as values related to democracy in the U.S. need to be passed on to ensure the survival of the society's way of life. Beyond formal education, informal socialization practices, such as the media, play a crucial role in transmitting culture and helping us form our own identities and understanding of the world around us.