SOCS 185 Culture Essay a Homeless Situation

Introduction

Arty’s recent experience of homelessness can be attributed to many social factors. Macro-level factors to understand the broader context of his situation. On an individual level, Arty may face challenges such as limited education, a history of incarceration, an unstable work history, or other personal problems. These factors can contribute to difficulties in maintaining stable housing. However, macro-level structural factors contribute to homelessness on a national and global scale. Economic recessions, a lack of affordable housing options, and large-scale job losses are some structural factors that can lead to homelessness. These broader societal issues play a significant role in shaping Arty’s circumstances.

Arty, being a veteran, may also be dealing with his military service. Veterans can lead addiction issues as they turn to drugs and alcohol to cope with the pressures they face in civilian life. This can further compound the challenges Arty faces and contribute to his homelessness. Furthermore, Arty may encounter difficulties in obtaining and maintaining employment. Transitioning from a military environment to the civilian workforce can be challenging, as he may struggle to translate his military skills into applicable skills in the civilian job market. This can hinder his ability to secure and retain employment, making it difficult to afford housing and meet his basic needs.

SOCS 185 Culture Essay a Homeless Situation

In addition, accessing affordable medical care may challenge Arty, particularly in addressing his mental health needs. The lack of low-cost medical options and the complexity of navigating available resources can impede his ability to receive the necessary support and treatment. Considering his military background, Arty may also experience a sense of culture shock as he adjusts to a civilian lifestyle that may vastly differ from his previous military experience. This transition can add to his challenges in finding stability and accessing the appropriate assistance.

Overall, Arty’s homelessness is influenced by individual struggles and broader societal factors. Understanding these complexities is crucial in developing comprehensive solutions to address homelessness and providing individuals like Arty with the support and resources they need to regain stability.

Culture shock occurs when an individual’s preconceived notions and expectations about a particular culture do not align with the reality they encounter. It is the feeling of disorientation experienced when discovering cultures vastly different from one’s own, leading to a realization that one’s assumptions about life cannot be relied upon (Kendall, 2016, pg. 62). Culture shock plays a crucial role in understanding the beliefs and values that shape different cultures and is commonly experienced when entering a new country or encountering unfamiliar cultural practices.

SOCS 185 Culture Essay a Homeless Situation

On the other hand, ethnocentrism involves the belief that one’s cultural views and practices are superior to those of different cultures. It manifests in the tendency to judge and evaluate other cultures based on one’s artistic standards. Examples of ethnocentrism include racial and ethnic biases, stereotypes, judgments about food preferences, and opinions about clothing choices. This perspective limits one’s ability to appreciate the diversity and richness of other cultures.

In contrast, cultural relativism recognizes that each culture should be understood and evaluated within its unique framework of norms and values. It emphasizes the importance of interpreting a culture’s beliefs and practices based on its standards of normalcy. For instance, while public nudity in the United States is often associated with sexuality, in many cultures, nudity or partial nudity in general settings is seen as a natural and normal part of life. Similarly, in some cultures influenced by Islam, there is an expectation for more conservative body coverage. Cultural relativism helps to foster understanding and respect for cultural differences.

Culture shock, ethnocentrism, and cultural relativism are all significant concepts within the sociological imagination. Recognizing that cultures vary in beliefs and values is essential for appreciating diversity and avoiding narrow-minded judgments. The world’s richness stems from different cultures, each with unique perspectives and practices. Embracing cultural differences and engaging in cross-cultural understanding promotes a more inclusive and interconnected society.