As an expert in cultural studies, I have spent considerable time examining the intricate tapestry of human societies and the concept of culture itself. Culture is a multifaceted and dynamic entity that encompasses a society's shared beliefs, customs, practices, and values. It is a living, breathing aspect of human existence that evolves and adapts over time, influenced by various factors such as history, geography, religion, and social structures.

Real culture, as opposed to ideal culture, is a term that refers to the actual, lived experiences and practices of a society, rather than the ideals or aspirations that are often articulated in more formal or theoretical contexts. It is the culture that is enacted and embodied in the everyday interactions and behaviors of individuals within a community.

### Key Aspects of Real Culture


1. Behavioral Norms: Real culture is often manifested through the norms that govern social interactions. These norms are the unwritten rules that dictate how people should behave in certain situations, and they can vary widely from one culture to another.


2. Values in Action: While ideal culture might promote certain values, real culture is where these values are put into action. It's one thing to say a society values honesty, but real culture is observed when individuals consistently demonstrate honesty in their dealings with one another.


3. Institutional Practices: The institutions within a society, such as government, education, and business, often reflect the real culture. The way these institutions operate can reveal the true values and norms that are prioritized.


4. Language and Communication: The way people communicate, including the nuances of language, body language, and even silence, can be a strong indicator of real culture. Language is not just a tool for communication but also a carrier of cultural significance.


5. Cultural Artifacts: The artifacts that a culture produces, whether they are works of art, technological innovations, or architectural designs, can offer insights into the real culture. These artifacts are often a reflection of the society's values and priorities.


6. Social Hierarchies and Power Dynamics: Real culture is also evident in the way power and status are distributed and maintained within a society. The existence and perpetuation of social hierarchies can tell us a lot about the values that are truly held by a culture.

7.
Response to Change: How a culture adapts to new ideas, technologies, and external influences can also be a part of real culture. The degree of openness or resistance to change can reveal underlying values and attitudes.

8.
Conflict Resolution: The methods and processes a society uses to resolve conflicts can be indicative of its real culture. This includes both formal legal systems and informal community practices.

### The Gap Between Ideal and Real Culture

The discrepancy between ideal culture and real culture can stem from various reasons. Ideals are often aspirational and may not fully represent the complexities of human behavior. People may hold certain values in high regard but may not always act in accordance with them due to a range of factors, including personal beliefs, social pressures, and systemic constraints.

### Importance of Understanding Real Culture

Understanding the real culture of a society is crucial for several reasons:

- Social Cohesion: It helps in building a more cohesive society by recognizing and addressing the actual behaviors and values that exist.
- Policy Making: It can inform policy and decision-making processes to be more effective and relevant to the needs and practices of the people.
- Cultural Exchange: It facilitates better cultural exchange and understanding between different societies by focusing on the realities rather than the ideals.
- Personal Growth: It can lead to personal growth and development as individuals become more aware of the cultural practices and values that influence their own behavior.

In conclusion, real culture is a complex and nuanced concept that goes beyond the ideals and aspirations to the practical realities of how a society operates. It is a critical aspect of cultural studies and understanding human societies.

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In summary, sometimes there is a gap between the culture - including values - that a society professes to have and the culture that they actually possess. Ideal culture includes the values and norms that a culture claims to have, while real culture includes the values and norms that are actually followed by a culture.read more >>