Final answer:
Symbols play a vital role in culture as they convey shared meanings and beliefs. They are arbitrary and do not have a natural connection to what they represent. The system of symbols encompasses various aspects of a culture, including language, rituals, art, and social structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Symbols play a crucial role in culture as they help convey and represent shared meanings, values, and beliefs. They are arbitrary because there is no natural connection between the symbol and what it represents. For example, the Islamic symbol of the crescent and star is a metaphor that does not have a direct connection to the religion itself. The system of symbols refers to the various ways in which symbols are used in a particular culture, including language, rituals, art, and social structures.