De-cultured

De-cultured describes the process or state of losing or abandoning the cultural traits, values, and practices that are characteristic of a particular group, society, or individual. It signifies a detachment from one's cultural heritage, often resulting from assimilation into a different culture, globalization, social upheaval, or deliberate choices to reject cultural norms. This can manifest in various ways, from language loss and the adoption of foreign customs to a diminished sense of belonging and identity tied to one's cultural origins. It often leads to a sense of disorientation, placelessness, or the adoption of a new cultural identity or an a-cultural state.

De-cultured meaning with examples

• Growing up in a multicultural environment, the children began to be de-cultured. Their parents' traditions seemed less relevant, their ancestral language fading as they embraced the dominant societal norms. They started prioritizing pop culture over family gatherings, displaying a shift away from the value system of their cultural group. This impacted their self-identification, leading to questions about their background.
• The forced assimilation policies imposed on indigenous communities in the past frequently resulted in the de-culturing of generations. Children were removed from their families, forbidden to speak their language, and compelled to adopt the dominant culture's practices. This eradicated valuable traditions, beliefs, and stories that would otherwise have been preserved and transmitted, leaving a cultural void.
• Due to globalization and the spread of Western media, many traditional societies are experiencing rapid de-culturing, as younger generations are increasingly influenced by foreign cultures. Indigenous art, traditional clothing and foods are becoming less relevant, while more children want to dress and eat in a different manner. The sense of a shared collective identity weakens.
• After emigrating to a new country, the artist experienced a profound sense of de-culturing. The vibrant traditions that inspired her work were fading, replaced by the pressures of adapting to new customs. This created feelings of isolation, as her past work no longer resonated, and confusion as to what form of artistic inspiration she could draw upon to define and drive her work in the new culture.
• The government's efforts to modernize and standardize educational curriculums resulted in a form of de-culturing, as traditional subjects like history and local crafts were replaced with subjects related to modern technologies. Some students grew disconnected from their own culture's specific historical context, which led them to question its importance. The cultural focus shifted to the practical skills needed for the economy.