Kansas Funeral Director Practice Exam

What is a cultural universal?

1. A specific tradition unique to one culture

2. A pattern identifiable in all cultures

3. A cultural trait that varies widely

4. An aspect only present in developed nations

The correct answer is: A pattern identifiable in all cultures

A cultural universal refers to a pattern or trait that is found in every known culture, demonstrating that while cultures may differ in many aspects, there are fundamental concepts or practices that unite humanity as a whole. This can include family structures, social roles, religious beliefs, or even forms of expression such as art or music. Choosing the correct response highlights an essential understanding of how certain traits serve as a common thread across diverse cultures, facilitating communication and coexistence despite individual cultural differences. The other options misinterpret the concept of cultural universals by either narrow focusing on specific traditions, suggesting variations are more significant than the universal patterns, or incorrectly associating cultural traits solely with developed nations. Cultural universals extend beyond these limitations, recognizing shared human experiences across all societies.