AAMC FL Practice Exam

What term describes the condition where nonmaterial culture struggles to adapt to new material conditions?

1. Culture shock

2. Culture lag

3. Back stage self

4. Proximal stimulus

The correct answer is: Culture lag

The term that describes the condition where nonmaterial culture struggles to adapt to new material conditions is culture lag. Culture lag occurs when a society's nonmaterial culture—beliefs, values, norms, and social practices—fails to keep pace with changes in material culture, such as technology and physical environment. For instance, when new technologies are introduced, the ethical, legal, and social norms that govern behavior may take longer to adapt than the technological advancements themselves, leading to tensions and discrepancies between what is technologically possible and what is socially accepted. This concept highlights the dynamic nature of culture and the potential disconnect that can arise during periods of rapid change. Understanding culture lag can provide insights into social change, as it emphasizes the importance of aligning both material and nonmaterial aspects of culture to foster harmony and functionality within society.