Final answer:
A peoples' cultural repertoire consists of a combination of material culture and intangible elements like beliefs and social norms, which collectively aid their survival and adaptation to their environment, as well as shape societal practices and perceptions.
Step-by-step explanation:
A people's cultural repertoire consists of a complex array of ideas, activities, and technologies that facilitate their survival and adaptation to their environment. It includes material elements such as art, housing, and clothing, which are part of the material culture. Additionally, intangible aspects like beliefs, behaviors, social norms, and ancestral knowledge form an integral part of culture. For instance, people living in ecosystems rich in forests may believe in guardian spirits and thus act to protect these forests, exemplifying how culture influences perception and interaction with the environment. Moreover, culture is not static; it is transmitted from one generation to the next and evolves through innovation and cultural diffusion. Thus, understanding the concept of culture is critical in studying human lifeways, as it informs our knowledge about human social organization, technological progression, and sustainability practices across different societies.