The beliefs of a culture sculpt every facet of life. They can be seen in the small everyday activities, in the faces of the people and even in the core pillars upon which the culture is based. The ways in which beliefs affect a culture are practically limitless, and understanding this link can help one understand how cultures are built.

Some of the most powerful of beliefs are those that center around the people of a culture. Some cultures place a great focus on individuality and freedom. They are based upon the belief that everyone is created equal. In such a culture, there are great freedoms. People are not only allowed but encouraged to follow their dreams.  Personal freedoms are not greatly limited, and the culture will reflect this with a plethora of new ideas and positive adaptations.

In some cultures, different groups have more biases than others. They may believe that certain people are more important than others such as those with a certain color of skin or gender. In these cultures, there may be more limits on individual freedoms.

The freedoms afforded by a culture - or those forbidden - can have a great effect on the society. When freedom is encouraged, the culture will often flourish. All members of the culture will have the ability to contribute. People will showcase their individuality in creative and untried ways, expanding the culture in new horizons. When people are oppressed, however, unrest is often the result. Those with curtailed freedom may resist and sociopolitical unrest can develop.

The beliefs on what activities are important can also change a culture. When the members of a culture believe in the importance of the arts, for instance, then the culture may be marked by a never-ending renaissance. Some cultures will focus more on work, and industrial progress will result.

Some cultures focus more on the collective. The good of the society may take precedence over individual rights.

Religious beliefs also shape a culture. A belief in a positive deity that is a force for good can propel those in the society to behave in positive ways towards their fellow man. They may showcase greater personal responsibility. Religion can also be used as a method to control others, unfortunately, and may be used to oppress the same as the discrimination described above.

Every culture is like a petal of the beautiful flower of Mother Earth. The beliefs about other cultures can even affect the culture on its own. In a culture that has the belief that other cultures are important and that people should have the freedom to learn about the world, they may share and take from other lands. They may learn new things that they take into their culture. Their culture may adapt and change.

The beliefs in a culture can impact it to a great extent. Individuals should be aware of how their beliefs can have an impact so that they can build a beautiful culture for themselves and the world.

Resources:

http://www.wsu.edu/gened/learn-modules/top_culture/values-beliefs/values-beliefs-intro.html

http://www.iheu.org/node/1737