Module 56

Introduction to Sociology

Universals of Culture

Source; Wordwall
Universals of Culture
• Universals of culture refer to
elements that can be found in every
culture around the world, regardless
of its distinct characteristics.
• Examples of universals of culture
include the use of language, the need
for food and shelter, and the
establishment of social norms.
 Universals of Culture
• In Pakistan, universals of culture can
be seen in the widespread use of Urdu
as a national language, the importance
of family structures, the observance of
religious practices, and the celebration
of festivals like Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-
Adha.
• Other universals of culture in Pakistan
include the emphasis on hospitality,
respect for elders, and the value of
social relationships.

END
Module 57
Introduction to Sociology

Cultural Lag

Source; Wordpress.com
Cultural Lag
• Cultural lag refers to the time it takes
for cultural changes to catch up with
technological advances and other
societal shifts.
• An example of cultural lag in
Pakistan is the slow adoption of
modern technology in rural areas,
which often lack access to the
internet and other digital resources.
Cultural Lag
• Another example of cultural lag can be
seen in the traditional gender roles that
persist in some parts of the country,
despite increased education and
opportunities for women.
• The resistance to changing social norms
and practices, such as the caste system
in rural areas, is also an example of
cultural lag in Pakistan.
 Cultural Lag
• The prevalence of child marriage and
female genital mutilation in some parts
of the country is another example of
cultural lag.

END
Module 58
Introduction to Sociology

Culture, Class and the

Media
Culture, Class and the Media
• The media plays a crucial role in
shaping cultural norms, beliefs, and
values.
• In Pakistan, the media has contributed
to the growth of a consumerist culture,
particularly among the urban middle
class.
• The media has also been used to
reinforce and perpetuate traditional
gender roles, which has limited the
opportunities available to women in
society.
 Culture, Class and the Media
• The media has been used to create an
idealized image of the "perfect"
Pakistani, which often reinforces class
and ethnic biases and ignores the
diversity of experiences within the
country.
• The media has also been used to create a
sense of national identity and pride,
which has been used to strengthen the
social cohesion of the country.

END
Module 59
Introduction to Sociology

Cultural Change:
Today and Tomorrow
Cultural Change: Today and Tomorrow
• Cultural change refers to the
transformation of cultural norms,
values, and practices over time.
• Today, cultural change in Pakistan is
being driven by globalization,
urbanization, and the spread of
technology and social media.
• These changes have led to the
emergence of new cultural practices,
such as the rise of social media
influencers, and the growth of the gig
economy.
Cultural Change: Today and Tomorrow
• However, cultural change in Pakistan
is also being shaped by political and
economic factors, including the rise of
populism and the increasing divide
between the rich and the poor.
• Tomorrow, cultural change in Pakistan
is likely to be driven by demographic
shifts, including the growth of the
youth population, and the changing
nature of work and employment.

END