The enduring value of culture through Bourdieu’s lens

How cultural capital shapes and defines our social world

“Culture is the prime site of symbolic power and social reproduction, where the dominant groups in society impose their definitions and meanings, perpetuating their dominance and shaping the perceptions and behaviours of others” — Pierre Bourdieu.

Have you ever wondered why not just any fizzy alcoholic drink is considered Champagne? Or why certain dance styles are so easily identified on your social feeds? This distinction has a lot to do with culture, but even more so with cultural expression. What you may not realize, however, is that this is a form of cultural brand — animated in the way we do things and the things we do. Just as Champagne is tied to a specific region in France and follows strict production methods, many cultural expressions are bound by their origins and practices, maintaining their authenticity and identity. These cultural expressions carry symbolic value and power, influencing our tastes, choices, and even social status. Understanding the depth and impact of cultural expression helps us appreciate not just its artistic or aesthetic value, but its role…