Culture as Praxis Example: Community Gardening
Shared Beliefs and Values: In a neighborhood with a strong focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship, residents believe in the importance of local food production and the value of community engagement. They hold values such as cooperation, respect for nature, and the idea that everyone deserves access to fresh produce. These shared beliefs create a foundation for their community identity.
Shared Practices: To embody these beliefs, the neighborhood comes together to establish a community garden. During weekends, residents collaboratively prepare the soil, plant seeds, and maintain the garden. They organize regular workshops on composting, organic gardening, and the benefits of seasonal eating. These practices foster a sense of belonging and empowerment as they work side by side, sharing knowledge, skills, and resources.
In this example, culture is manifested through both the shared beliefs about sustainability and community as well as the collective actions taken to create and maintain the garden. The shared experiences build social ties and reinforce their collective identity, illustrating culture as praxis.