#be it explicitly or through the behaviour patterns and beliefs they have adopted. they might even be lukewarm towards the faith

[light-wrath-paradise]

Kinda funny how like 70 % of the characters I am obsessed with are explicitly religious in a context that is painted as negative but each of them is a completely different flavour of religion (ok I'm lying two of them are the same flavour but the funny part is that it is unclear which of the flavours it is. Because in the general context it'd be Catholicism but I think in the very specific time period it was Protestantism?). And all of the ones who don't serve a made-up religion are Christians.

[cultual-psychology]

Module 5:

This module focused on multiculturalism and cultural perspectives on values and morals, which has already prompted me to reflect deeply on my own cultural framework.

Understanding Acculturation Through Personal Experience:

One of the key concepts is acculturation, the process of adjusting to a new culture.  Growing up in a multicultural environment, I've gotten to see firsthand how people navigate between their birth culture and adopted culture.  This resonates with my own family history as my grandparents immigrated to this country from Ireland, bringing with them a rich tapestry of traditions and values from their homeland.  These traditions have been passed down through generations, subtly influencing my thoughts, behaviours, and values.  For instance, family gatherings often involve traditional foods that were mainstream in their country growing up.  These experiences have instilled in me a deep appreciation for my heritage, even as I navigate the broader cultural landscape.  Reflecting on this, I realize how my identity is a blend of both my ancestral culture and the culture I was born into.

Cultural Influences on Morality and Ethics:

The module also explores how religions and cultural norms shape our understanding of morality. This made me think about the moral values I hold dear and where they originate. Growing up, my moral compass was largely shaped by my family's Catholic religious beliefs, reinforced by community practices and the Catholic schools I attended. These values were not just taught explicitly but also inferred through observing how my family and peers acted in various situations as I was growing up.  a recurring theme in my upbringing was the importance of community support and collective well-being.  This contrasts with the individualistic values often emphasized in the dominant culture.  Understanding these differences helps me appreciate the diversity of moral reasoning and ethical behaviour across cultures.

Reflecting on Contemporary Events:

Still, relatively recent news events have also highlighted the role of culture in shaping human behaviour.  The global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, varied significantly across cultures.  Some societies emphasized collective responsibility and adherence to public health guidelines, while others strongly prioritized individual freedoms.  Reflecting on these differences using my knowledge of cultural psychology helps me understand the underlying cultural values driving these responses, which I find can be quite fascinating.

Personal Interactions and Cultural Conventions:

Cultural conventions also influence my daily interactions.  Whether it's the way I communicate with friends at school, the respect I show to elders or the way I celebrate holidays, these behaviours are deeply rooted in my cultural norms.  This course encourages me to be more mindful of these patterns and consider how they might be perceived by others from different cultural backgrounds.

Globalization and Cultural Identity:

Living in an increasingly globalized world has exposed me to various cultures, both directly and indirectly.  Media, travel, and personal relationships have all contributed to a more nuanced understanding of my own cultural identity.  

Health and Wellbeing:

Lastly, my culture's values and practices can have a profound impact on health and well-being. Traditional dietary habits, attitudes toward mental health, and community support systems all play a role in shaping my overall health.  Reflecting on these aspects helps me appreciate the positive influences of my culture while also recognizing areas where cultural norms may need to evolve.

This journey through Cultural Psychology is not just an academic exercise but a personal exploration of my cultural self. By reflecting on the concepts and knowledge about culture, I am gaining a deeper understanding of how my cultural experiences shape my identity and interactions with the world. I look forward to continuing this journey and sharing more insights in future blog posts.