Question

Using your experiences and the internet as your guides, write an essay (at least 500 words) with an introduction and a conclusion in which you address the following topics. List all resources used in standard format at the end of your paper.

1. Identify a cultural group to which you belong. Explain why you consider it a culture by describing some of its characteristics and providing examples of the kinds of experiences and knowledge shared by its members. (4 points)

2. Is this group a dominant group or minority group? Explain why you classify this group in this way. (3 points)

3. Is this group a subculture or a counterculture? Explain why you classify this group in this way. (3 points)

4. Identify a symbol, a language, an institution, and a value associated with this culture. Explain the importance of each these cultural elements to this culture. (4 points)

5. Explain how this culture’s way of life is learned by and taught to members of this group. (3 points)

6. Describe the greatest benefit(s) and drawback(s) to being a member of this culture that you have personally experienced. (3 points)

Answer 1

1. Before going to discuss about the cultural group to which I belong, it is essential to understand what exactly a cultural group is? I m starting my discussion defining that. So, a Cultural group is commonly referred to as a social group characterized by a distinctive social and cultural tradition maintained from generation to generation, a common history and origin, and a sense of identification with the group; members have distinctive features in their way of life, shared experiences, and often a common genetic heritage.

I am going to discuss about ISKCON Culture.ISKCON stands for International society for Krishna consciousness which is a religious cultural group founded in 1966.ISKCON was formed to spread the practice of Bhakti yoga, in which those involved (bhaktas) dedicate their thoughts and actions towards pleasing, Krishna, their Supreme Lord. Krishna is described as the source of all the avatars of God. Thus ISKCON devotees worship Krishna as the highest form of God. ISKCON advocates preaching. Members try to spread Krishna consciousness, primarily by singing the Hare Krishna mantra in public places and by selling books written by the founder. Both of these activities are known within the movement as Sankirtan. Street preaching is one of the most visible activities of the movement.

2. The ISKCON culture is a major dominant culture across the world. This is because the Members of this group are not only Hindus, but it has members from different sectors of the society and has many centres in the world to preach the messages of Krishna.

3. It is a kind of Subculture which has its own uniqueness. It is a sub culture to Hindu Religion, yet it has its own identity and distinct features.

4. The symbol of ISCON is the faith on lord Krishna and the language they speak is the Hare Krishna Hare Rama and the values attached with ISKCON are its principles of Dharma. According to ISKCON Culture, four Principles of Dharma are-

• Daya-Mercy
• Tapas-Self control or Austerity
• Satyam-Truthfulness
• Saucam-Cleaniliness of body and mind

5. The ISKCON Culture is not just a culture; it is a way of life. It teaches us how to lead a life free from all kinds of desires. It also teaches us how to make life very simple and enjoyable following four founding principles of Daya, Tapas, Satyam and Saucam.