What is the definition of culture in the context of societal living?

In the context of societal living, culture is best defined as abstract patterns for living and dying that are shared among people. This definition emphasizes that culture encompasses the shared beliefs, values, norms, and practices that shape the way individuals within a society understand life and death, including their rituals, customs, and collective experiences.

Culture is not just about observable behaviors or physical environments; it is fundamentally about the underlying ideas and meanings that inform those behaviors. This encompasses how people conceptualize existence, mortality, and communal practices surrounding these experiences. In terms of funeral service education, understanding this aspect of culture is crucial because it directly influences how various communities honor their deceased and support their bereaved members. Thus, a deep comprehension of these abstract patterns is essential for providing appropriate and respectful funeral services that align with the cultural expectations of the families being served.