Globalization has brought about significant changes in the cultural arena. The world we live in is more interconnected than ever before. With technology and social media, it seems as though we know everything that is happening across the globe in real-time. Yet, there are some aspects of globalization that have not caught up with the rest, leading to a phenomenon called cultural lag. In this article, we will define cultural lag and explore its impact on society.
Cultural lag is a term introduced by sociologist William F. Ogburn, which refers to the time difference between the changes in material culture and non-material culture. Material culture refers to the physical objects or things that are created by society such as technology, clothing, and architecture, while non-material culture refers to social values, beliefs, and customs. Cultural lag occurs when there is a delay in adopting or accepting new values, beliefs, and customs, which results in a mismatch between the old and the new.
One of the most apparent impacts of cultural lag on society is the generation gap. As technological advancements progress rapidly, younger generations often experience a disconnection from the older generation’s values and beliefs. This disconnect results in a conflict between the two generations, causing a gap in understanding and communication. This generation gap may lead to societal problems such as social exclusion and cultural conflict.
Another impact of cultural lag is the clash of cultures. In a world where cultures mix, it’s easy to see anyone anywhere. The intermingling of cultures has resulted in cultural hybridization, which is the blending of different cultures. However, cultural lag can result in a clash between different cultures, as traditionally-held values and practices don’t align. This conflict can lead to tension and hostility, which is evident in the increasing number of racial incidents globally.
Moreover, cultural lag has also affected the labour market. With advancements in technology and AI, the demand for certain jobs has declined, and this has resulted in mass unemployment. However, without the acceptability of alternate occupations or education, it leads to a significant cultural lag.
To conquer cultural lag, it is essential to embrace education and inclusivity. Education, at the individual level, needs to be consistent and promoting the growth of newly emerging fields. At a societal level, newcomers from different cultures must maintain strong ties with their cultural heritage, while at the same time, learning to accept and embrace new cultures.
In conclusion, cultural lag is an ever-growing problem in our society that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. It leads to a disconnect between the old and the new, causing an array of problems. The solution lies in embracing education and inclusivity and calibrating our societal values. It will require a collaborative effort to bridge the ever-widening gap and ensure that our society continues to progress.
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