ple form of representation has led to many historic battles. This brings to mind the most noticeable symbols of a society and culture: the national flag and national anthem. Evidently these symbols are seen as militant by nature and therefore provoke very strong emotions for those who identify with it and those who are against it. The widespread use of a flag might be seen by some as distasteful and might represent oppression and genocide, this is the case for the European nations who were torn apart in two world wars. Even in the United States, there is a very strong attachment, by the local culture, to the national flag with the very national anthem. They are our most basic emblems but seem to be the final rallying point when the future looks grim and morale is low. It may seem outdated and futile to some cultures, but it can be the exact illusion required to offer comfort. This was most recently evident on Sept. 11 last year. When our country was attacked, our society joined together around our national symbol and it brought us together and gave us strength in a time of turmoil. Thereby a culture’s flag is a living thing who’s ageless existence speaks a thousand words, offers guidance and comfort, and serves as a reminder of the fears and hopes of ones ancestors (Nash 2).Another part of society and culture is the idea a general social structure. This is defined as the way in which society is organized into predictable relationships and patterns of social interaction (the way people respond to each other). A couple of elements that make up the structure are the roles people take in society and the presentation of self that the roles leave behind. Social structure can mean external and objective features of social order that are taught to have controlling power over culture and action. The presentation of ones self is dependent on the various surface roles being played and nothing more. Structural Individualis...
