Cultural universals

Definition

Cultural universals are elements, patterns, traits, or institutions that are common to all human cultures worldwide. These include practices such as marriage, education, religious rituals, and art forms.

Related terms

Norms:

The rules and expectations by which a society guides the behavior of its members.

Symbols:

Anything that carries a particular meaning recognized by people who share a culture.

Values:

Core principles and ideals upon which an entire community exists and makes its judgments