In anthropology, what does the term "culture" encompass?

The term "culture" in anthropology is understood as a comprehensive system that includes the learned behaviors, beliefs, values, practices, and norms that characterize a social group. It reflects how individuals within a society engage with one another and their environment, shaping their identities and social interactions. This definition highlights the dynamic and adaptive nature of culture, which evolves through social learning and experiences across generations.

While artistic expressions and symbols unique to a society are significant aspects of culture, they represent only a part of the larger cultural framework. The same goes for the physical environment, which indeed influences human behavior but is not itself a component of culture. Lastly, innate qualities pertain more to biological and psychological traits rather than the learned and shared nature of culture. Therefore, the understanding that culture encompasses the totality of learned behaviors and values is fundamental to the study of anthropology.