Intangible heritage

Definition

Intangible heritage refers to the practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, and skills that communities recognize as part of their cultural heritage. Unlike tangible heritage, which includes physical artifacts and monuments, intangible heritage focuses on the living traditions and cultural expressions that are passed down through generations, emphasizing the importance of oral traditions, rituals, and social practices in preserving cultural identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Intangible heritage is recognized by UNESCO as an essential aspect of cultural heritage that contributes to community identity and cohesion.
2. Practices considered intangible heritage include traditional music, dance, festivals, rituals, and culinary traditions that embody a community's cultural expression.
3. Efforts to preserve intangible heritage often involve documentation and community participation to ensure the continuity of these practices for future generations.
4. The protection of intangible heritage can face challenges such as globalization and urbanization, which may threaten the viability of traditional practices.
5. Communities often play a vital role in defining their own intangible heritage, allowing them to assert ownership and control over their cultural expressions.

Review Questions

• How does intangible heritage contribute to a community's cultural identity?
  • Intangible heritage plays a crucial role in shaping a community's cultural identity by embodying the shared values, beliefs, and practices that are passed down through generations. This living heritage includes oral traditions, rituals, and customs that provide a sense of belonging and continuity for members of the community. By actively engaging with these traditions, individuals reinforce their connection to their culture and history, making intangible heritage vital for maintaining cultural diversity.
• What challenges do communities face in preserving their intangible heritage in a globalized world?
  • In a globalized world, communities face several challenges in preserving their intangible heritage. The influences of modern technology and mass media can dilute traditional practices as younger generations may become more attracted to global trends rather than local customs. Additionally, urbanization can lead to the displacement of communities and the loss of spaces where these traditions are practiced. As such, it's crucial for communities to find ways to adapt their intangible heritage while also safeguarding its authenticity.
• Evaluate the role of organizations like UNESCO in the preservation of intangible heritage and its impact on local communities.
  • Organizations like UNESCO play an important role in the preservation of intangible heritage by providing frameworks for recognition and protection of cultural practices worldwide. Their efforts include creating lists of intangible cultural heritage that raise awareness about its significance and promote its safeguarding. This recognition can empower local communities by validating their cultural expressions and providing support for preservation initiatives. However, it is essential for these organizations to collaborate closely with local communities to ensure that preservation efforts align with the actual needs and wishes of those who practice these traditions.

Related terms

Cultural Practices: Customs, rituals, and ceremonies that reflect a community's beliefs and values, often passed down through generations.

Folklore: The collection of traditional beliefs, myths, legends, and stories that are characteristic of a particular culture or community.

Oral Tradition: The transmission of cultural material through spoken word from one generation to another, often including storytelling and poetry.