Final answer:
Cultural universals are common patterns or traits found in all societies, such as marriage and gender roles. These concepts are recognized by human cultures worldwide, even though they may vary in expression and practice.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that describes concepts commonly known by human cultures worldwide is 'cultural universals.' These are patterns or traits that are found globally across all societies. Examples include marriage and family units, which are recognized in every society with varying definitions and functions. Another aspect of cultural universals is gender roles, which refer to the societal norms dictating how men and women are expected to behave and look. Gender roles are deeply ingrained social norms that influence a wide range of behaviors, from clothing choices to professional aspirations and social interactions.
Anthropologist George Murdock first recognized the existence of cultural universals, noting that certain sociocultural elements, such as kinship and marriage customs, might vary greatly but remain present in all cultures. Beyond the structuring of family, universal concepts also extend to the ceremonies and rituals we partake in, like funerals, weddings, and birth celebrations. These rites of passage are celebrated everywhere, even though each culture may interpret and perform them differently. While some elements of culture are unique, the presence of cultural universals shows that there are aspects of human cultures that transcend local customs and environments.