Essays: July 2023 UPSC Current Affairs | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

Culture Does not Make People, People Make Culture

A Nation's Culture Resides in the Hearts and in the Soul of its People

Mahatma Gandhi

Culture is an essential component of society, providing a framework of beliefs, values, and behaviors that influence the way people interact with one another. It shapes our worldviews and identities, and it reflects the collective experiences of the people who make up a particular community. However, while culture plays an important role in shaping individuals and society, it is ultimately people who shape culture.
The statement "Culture does not make people, people make culture" suggests that culture is not something that is predetermined or static, but rather something that is constantly evolving and shaped by the actions and choices of individuals. In other words, culture is not something that exists independently of human agency but is instead created and recreated by human beings through their interactions with one another.
While culture provides a framework and influences individuals, people possess the ability to make choices. They can deviate from cultural norms, challenge existing beliefs, and adopt new perspectives. People have the capacity to think critically and make decisions based on personal experiences and individual values, which may not always align with cultural expectations.
This idea is particularly relevant in today's globalized world, where the interconnectivity of people and cultures has led to the blending and evolution of traditions and practices across geographic and cultural boundaries. As individuals interact with one another and share their ideas and experiences, they bring their unique perspectives and values, which can lead to the formation of new cultural norms and practices.
Cultures are not homogenous entities, but rather diverse and multifaceted. Within any culture, there are variations in beliefs, practices and values among individuals. People within the same culture can hold different opinions, engage in different behaviors, and embrace alternative lifestyles. This diversity within cultures indicates that individuals have the capacity to shape their own identities and make choices that may go against certain cultural norms.
Furthermore, the actions and choices of individuals can have a significant impact on the direction and evolution of culture. For example, cultural icons, such as musicians, actors, and artists, can influence the attitudes and behaviors of their followers, and their impact can be felt across generations. Similarly, social movements and political leaders can shape the values and beliefs of a society, which can ultimately lead to changes in cultural norms and practices.
People are not solely influenced by their own cultural background. In today's interconnected world, individuals have increased exposure to different cultures through travel, migration, communication, and the internet. These interactions allow for the exchange of ideas and the adoption of new perspectives, which can shape an individual's worldview and behavior. Exposure to diverse cultures provides opportunities for personal growth and the development of unique identities that transcend cultural boundaries.
However, the influence of individuals on culture is not limited to those in positions of power or influence. Everyday people also have the power to shape culture through their interactions with one another. This can include everything from the way we communicate and express ourselves to the way we consume goods and services.
Cultures are not static entities. They evolve and change over time as societies progress, adapt to new circumstances, and interact with other cultures. Social, economic, and technological advancements contribute to the transformation of cultural norms and values. Individuals play an active role in this process through cultural innovation, social movements, and the reevaluation of existing norms. This dynamic nature of culture allows for individuals to challenge and shape cultural practices.
Culture is a living entity that evolves and grows with the collective experiences of a community. One of the fascinating aspects of culture is how daily practices can transform into traditions and, ultimately, shape the fabric of an entire culture.
Daily practices form the bedrock of human routines and interactions. They are the repeated actions and behaviors that individuals engage in on a regular basis. These practices often stem from practical needs, social norms, or personal beliefs. Examples include rituals, routines, and customs observed in various aspects of life, such as meal preparation, greetings, or religious practices.
As daily practices are consistently followed and passed down from generation to generation, they acquire a deeper meaning and value. The repetition and preservation of these practices instills a sense of continuity and connection to one's heritage. Individuals recognize the significance of these actions, attributing them to their ancestors or cultural origins.
Traditions emerge when a group of people collectively adopt and continue to practice specific daily rituals. As communities adhere to these traditions, they strengthen their cultural identity. Rituals become markers of belonging, forging a sense of unity and shared heritage among community members. The act of passing down these traditions ensures their continuity, as they become a cherished part of cultural heritage.
The transformation of daily practices into traditions and their subsequent integration into a culture exemplify the intricate interplay between human agency and collective identity. Through the preservation and reinforcement of traditions, individuals cultivate a sense of belonging and perpetuate cultural heritage. The evolving nature of culture, fueled by the reinterpretation of traditions, allows for the growth, expansion, and resilience of societies. Daily practices are the seeds from which traditions and cultures blossom, shaping our worldviews, values, and shared human experiences.
In many ways, the ability of people to shape culture is a reflection of the fundamental human need for connection and belonging. We are social beings who seek to find meaning and purpose in our lives through our interactions with others. As we come together in communities and share our experiences, we create and recreate culture in ways that reflect our shared values and beliefs.
Culture is a dynamic and ever-evolving entity that is shaped by the choices and actions of individuals. While culture provides a framework and influences individuals, people possess the agency to challenge norms, adopt new perspectives, and create cultural change. The interconnectedness of our globalized world further facilitates the blending and evolution of cultures. As individuals interact and share ideas, they contribute to the formation of new cultural norms and practices. Ultimately, the power of individuals to shape culture reflects our innate need for connection and our capacity for personal growth and change.

“Culture is the Widening of the Mind and of the Spirit.”

Jawaharlal Nehru

Life is Long Journey Between Human Being and Being Human

“You have to grow from the inside out. None can teach you; none can make you spiritual. There is no other teacher but your own soul.”

Swami Vivekananda

As we embark on the journey of life, we traverse a path filled with diverse experiences, encounters, and challenges. Each step we take, every decision we make, and every interaction we have contributes to the shade of our existence. This journey serves as an opportunity for profound self-discovery, growth, and understanding.
Throughout our lives, we encounter various situations that shape our identity and perspective. We may face triumphs and successes that boost our confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment. Simultaneously, we encounter failures and setbacks that test our resilience and offer valuable lessons for personal development. These experiences collectively contribute to our growth as individuals and shape the unique fabric of our being.
The concept of being human extends beyond mere existence as a member of the Homo sapiens species. It encompasses the ideals of compassion, empathy, self-awareness, and moral consciousness. To be human is to embrace our capacity for reason, creativity, and the pursuit of truth and justice. It is a lifelong endeavor to cultivate our humanity and foster a harmonious coexistence with others and the world around us.
However, the path towards being human is not a straightforward one. It is a complex and often arduous journey that requires introspection, self-reflection, and growth. The process of self-evaluation, free from bias and unaffected by personal preferences, is an essential aspect of personal growth regarding being human. Typically, humans have a tendency to prioritize their own ideologies and preferences.
Individuals often strive to justify their thoughts and actions, even if they may not align with reality. It is the ego that prevents individuals from acknowledging their shortcomings and falsehoods, hindering their ability to truly accept their weaknesses and lack of understanding. However, the journey towards being human involves acknowledging these limitations and rejecting false notions of self-importance. By embracing humility and recognizing the need for improvement, individuals can transition from human being to being truly human. Generally, an individual spends a significant portion of their lives simply being human, going through the motions without truly understanding or embodying the essence of their humanity. They may be driven by primal instincts, societal expectations, or personal ambitions, losing sight of the fundamental values that define our shared humanity.
To embark on the transformative journey from human being to being human, the development of profound self-awareness is paramount. Self-awareness is the inherent ability of the mind to integrate both the external and internal worlds. However, the inclination of the mind is often to align itself with the side that is more convenient for the individual. Nevertheless, an aware mind always takes the side of righteousness, regardless of convenience. Examining our thoughts, emotions, and actions becomes crucial in this process. We must question the motives and consequences behind them. By gaining a better understanding of ourselves, we can effectively identify our strengths and weaknesses, biases and prejudices. This self-examination empowers us to actively personal inner growth and enlightenment.
Human beings have the capacity for reason and logical thinking. We can analyze information, solve problems, make decisions based on evidence and critical thinking, and pursue knowledge and understanding.
Furthermore, being human requires us to cultivate empathy and compassion towards others. It involves recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of their background, beliefs, or circumstances. Through empathy, we can transcend our own perspectives and connect with the experiences and emotions of others, fostering understanding and fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society. True humans possess the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. They demonstrate empathy by showing kindness, compassion, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. They strive to alleviate suffering and promote the welfare of those around them.
Integrity and honesty are fundamental characteristics of being human, as true humans uphold moral and ethical principles. They exhibit truthfulness, trustworthiness, and dependability in both their words and actions. They prioritize doing what is right, even when it conflicts with personal gain or convenience. Being human entails a deep respect for the dignity, autonomy, and rights of all individuals. True human value diversity and treat others with fairness, openness, and tolerance, irrespective of differences in race, gender, religion, or any other attribute. They actively cultivate an inclusive and accepting environment.
A key characteristic of true humans is assuming responsibility for their actions and decisions. They take accountability for the outcomes resulting from their choices and readily acknowledge their mistakes or shortcomings to learn from them. They possess an awareness of how their behavior impacts themselves, others, and the world at large. These individuals exhibit humility by recognizing their limitations, being open-minded to diverse ideas, perspectives, and feedback. They foster a mindset of lifelong learning and willingly challenge their own beliefs and biases. They demonstrate courage in the face of challenges, adversity, and fear, displaying resilience and determination to overcome obstacles. They embrace personal growth, viewing setbacks as opportunities for learning and development.
Individuals willingly dedicate their time, resources, and abilities to assist others without expecting anything in return. They actively contribute to enhancing their communities and strive to positively impact the lives of those around them. These individuals seek wisdom through introspection, self-reflection, and continuous personal growth. They draw lessons from their experiences, develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others, and make thoughtful decisions based on insight and discernment. True humans embrace love as a fundamental aspect of their existence, fostering meaningful connections with family, friends, and the broader human community. They express love, care, and support, nurturing a sense of belonging and interconnectedness.
Becoming a true human is an ongoing journey that extends throughout a lifetime, acknowledging that perfection is unattainable. These characteristics serve as a guiding framework for personal growth and ethical conduct, but it's crucial to approach them with humility, empathy, and a dedication to constant self-improvement.

“The moment I have realized God sitting in the temple of every human body, the moment I stand in reverence before every human being and see God in him - that moment I am free from bondage, everything that binds vanishes, and I am free.”

Swami Vivekananda