Tradition

Tradition is a belief or behavior passed down within a group or society with symbolic meaning or special significance with origins in the past. Common examples include holidays or impractical but socially meaningful clothes (like lawyers' wigs or military officers' spurs), but the idea has also been applied to social norms such as greetings. Traditions can persist and evolve for thousands of years—the word "tradition" itself derives from the Latin tradere or traderer literally meaning to transmit, to hand over, to give for safekeeping. While it is commonly assumed that traditions have ancient history, many traditions have been invented on purpose, whether that be political or cultural, over short periods of time. Certain scholarly fields, such as anthropology and biology, have traditionally paid close attention to the concept of tradition, and are thus frequently cited in definitions of the term.

Origins and history

The concept of tradition, as the notion of holding on to a previous time, is found in political and philosophical discourse throughout history, most notably in the works of Edmund Burke and Friedrich Nietzsche. The term is also used in varying contexts in other fields, such as anthropology, sociology, and biology.

Types of tradition

Traditions can be classified into two types: tacit traditions, which are passed on implicitly by behavior, and explicit traditions, which are passed on explicitly in the form of written information. They can also be divided into cultural traditions, which are shared within a specific culture, and universal traditions, which are common to all human cultures.

Role in society

Traditions play a crucial role in society. They foster a sense of community, continuity, and identity, not to mention the fact that they help people to understand their cultural heritage and history. Traditions can also serve as a form of social cohesion, bringing people together around shared experiences and values.

Criticism and controversy

While traditions are generally seen as beneficial, they can also be a source of controversy. Some traditions may be seen as outdated or oppressive, and there are often debates about the need to uphold certain traditions in the face of social change.

See also

• Custom (law)
• Convention (norm)
• Social norm
• Folklore

External links

• Example Website

Tradition Resources
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