Final answer:
Culture concepts do not have an agreed upon definition as they are not material entities but abstract constructs in our minds, representing a group's shared practices, values, and beliefs. The dynamic nature of culture arises from the interplay of structure and agency within society. Statement in the question is false.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of whether culture concepts have an agreed upon definition is complex. The statement that culture concepts have an agreed upon definition is false. Culture, as explained in various texts and academic discourses, is not a concrete, material entity, but rather an abstract concept existing in our minds. It encompasses a group's shared practices, values, and beliefs, and signifies the way of life for the group's members.
This can include everything from the explicit teaching of rules and behaviors to the implicit learning of traditions and norms within a society.
Agency and structure are two key concepts that influence the understanding and dynamics of culture. While agency refers to the power of individuals and institutions to navigate and alter societal rules, structure relates to the established rules that govern social interactions.
These factors are constantly interacting, and the outcome of this interaction is what is perceived as culture. Hence, culture is dynamic and constantly evolving, influenced by the interplay of shared values, beliefs, norms, language, symbols, arts, artifacts, and collective identity.
In academic discussions, the reification of culture is cautioned against. Geographer Don Mitchell and other scholars remind us that culture should not be oversimplified or treated as an independent force exerting control over individuals. Instead, culture should be approached as an idea that helps explain group tendencies while acknowledging individual agency.