What does the term "culture" refer to in a social context?

In a social context, the term "culture" primarily refers to learned behaviors, traditions, values, customs, and social norms that are passed down through generations within a community or society. This encompasses the ways of life of a group, including language, art, religion, cuisine, and rituals. Culture plays a crucial role in shaping individuals' identities and influences social interactions, fostering communal ties and shared experiences. It is the foundation upon which societies build their collective identities, enhancing understanding and cooperation among their members.

While political systems, scientific practices, and artistic expressions can all contribute to or reflect a culture, they do not capture the full breadth of what culture encompasses. Political systems focus on governance and authority, scientific practices are concerned with empirical methods and inquiry, and artistic expressions represent a form of creativity and communication. Therefore, the most accurate representation of "culture" in this context is the learned behaviors and traditions that define a society and its way of life.