Final answer:
Comparing elements like hairstyles and habits of speech across cultures shows that individuals generally conform to social norms. Conformity helps societies maintain order and cohesion, with cultural norms being reinforced by social interactions and institutions. Differences in cultures can influence the behaviors that are encouraged or suppressed.
Step-by-step explanation:
Comparing elements such as hairstyles, habits of speech, dress, eating habits, and social customs in two or more cultures demonstrates that individuals tend to conform to social norms. Conformity involves aligning behaviors, appearance, and practices with the accepted standards within a group or society. These can include wearing certain types of clothes, speaking in particular ways, and following certain etiquette at meal times. While some individuals might deliberately choose nonconformity to stand out, in many cases, people prefer to blend in, seeking approval and avoiding disruption to their social environment. This conformity is reinforced through direct interactions within social groups and also through institutions such as schools and the media that reinforce cultural norms.
Cultures can differ widely in the behaviors they encourage or suppress. For instance, competition or creativity may be valued in some cultures more than others. However, irrespective of the differences, the inclination to conform can lead to a safer, more predictable life within a society, which most people desire. In this way, cultures sustain and perpetuate their unique identities and values through shared norms and practices, with events and symbols playing a part in expressing these cultural elements.