Culture is all-encompassing; it is not just about the language people speak but about their entire way of life. It reflects how people think, behave, and interact with others in their society. When we talk about culture, we are talking about the values, beliefs, traditions, and daily practices that shape a group of people or even a whole nation. It is what makes one group different from another and gives them a sense of identity and belonging.
I have come to realize that you can learn a lot about a people’s culture just by observing them, even from afar. For instance, when I watch movies from other countries, I often get a glimpse into how their society works. Take Korean movies, for example. From the way the characters speak, dress, and even greet one another, you can tell that respect is a big part of their culture. The deep bows, the formal language, and the strong emphasis on family relationships all say a lot about their values. In some scenes, even the way they share meals at the table shows how closely knit they are as a community.
Movies can be a window into the lives of people you have never met. They reveal things like fashion trends, common foods, marriage customs, and even how people handle conflict or celebrate happy moments. For example, watching an Indian movie might show you how vibrant and colourful their weddings are, with lots of dancing, music, and family involvement. On the other hand, an African movie may highlight the importance of extended family and community gatherings. These little details might seem small, but they carry deep meanings about the values and priorities of that culture.
While language is an important part of culture, it is no longer the biggest barrier to understanding others. Technology has made communication easier through translation tools and subtitles. Even if I do not understand a foreign language, I can still enjoy movies from other countries and understand the storyline. This shows that culture goes far beyond words. It is in the actions, expressions, and symbols people use every day.
Sadly, as the world becomes more connected, some local traditions and unique cultural practices are slowly fading away. Many people now only talk about their culture when they feel threatened or want to make a point, but they do not actively practice or value it in their daily lives. For example, some young people may not know the traditional songs, dances, or stories of their ancestors because they are more focused on modern lifestyles influenced by social media. While change is inevitable, it is important to keep parts of culture that promote love, unity, and growth. At the same time, it is okay to let go of traditions that encourage hate, inequality, or division.
In the end, culture shapes who we are, but it should not limit us. By questioning our cultural practices and being open to learning from others, we can grow as individuals and as a society. Culture is like a mirror. It shows the world who we are, and it is up to us to make sure that reflection is something we are proud of.