Distinction Between Life and Culture Essay Example

(36), immigrants often prioritize work over their culture and lifestyles in their pursuit of freedom and enjoyment. American culture stands out from other cultures, with distinct qualities and aspects that are easily recognizable as American or Western (Europe). American symbols like the Flag, which features stars representing each state and stripes representing the original colonies, along with landmarks such as the White House and the Statue of Liberty, as well as practices like reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, are exclusive to America (Berger 4). Elizabeth Wong and Richard Rodriguez perceive American culture as a "melting pot," resulting in a multicultural nation marked by diversity. This allows African Americans and other cultures to embrace their heritage while coexisting within America. However, there are downsides to the "melting pot" concept. Failure to accept and respect other cultures can lead to increased crime rates, racism, and discrimination within isolated communities (McCuen 98).

Conclusion

The distinction between life and culture is apparent as individuals prioritize wealth accumulation for a better life over adhering to their cultural norms. Life and culture are distinct entities, allowing individuals the option to live without fully embracing any particular culture. Despite the abundance of diverse cultures, many choose to disregard their own cultural background and instead adopt the customs of foreign countries. This inclination has led to a neglect of culture, ultimately impacting people's moral values negatively.