Intangible cultural heritage

Definition

Intangible cultural heritage refers to the practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, and skills that communities recognize as part of their cultural heritage. This includes traditions such as oral history, performing arts, rituals, and social practices that are passed down through generations. Unlike physical heritage like monuments or artifacts, intangible cultural heritage is dynamic and constantly evolving, reflecting the identities and values of communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Intangible cultural heritage is recognized by UNESCO as essential for promoting cultural diversity and sustainability in a globalized world.
2. The safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage involves active participation from communities to ensure its transmission to future generations.
3. Unlike tangible heritage, intangible cultural heritage is not limited to physical objects but includes the meaning behind traditions and practices.
4. Many communities have developed strategies to protect their intangible cultural heritage against commercialization and loss of authenticity.
5. Examples of intangible cultural heritage include traditional dance forms, culinary practices, festivals, and folk music that showcase unique cultural identities.

Review Questions

• How does intangible cultural heritage contribute to the identity of a community?
  • Intangible cultural heritage plays a vital role in shaping a community's identity by embodying its beliefs, values, and historical experiences. Through practices like storytelling, traditional rituals, and performing arts, members of the community connect with their past while reinforcing their collective identity. This shared heritage fosters a sense of belonging and continuity among community members, making it essential for maintaining cultural diversity.
• Discuss the challenges faced in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage in the context of globalization.
  • Globalization poses several challenges to the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage as it often leads to the dilution or commercialization of traditional practices. As global culture becomes more dominant, unique local customs may be overshadowed or altered to appeal to broader audiences. Additionally, younger generations may lose interest in traditional practices due to exposure to modern influences. Therefore, it's crucial for communities to actively engage in preserving their intangible heritage while adapting to changing circumstances.
• Evaluate the role of organizations like UNESCO in promoting and protecting intangible cultural heritage globally.
  • Organizations like UNESCO play a critical role in promoting and protecting intangible cultural heritage by establishing frameworks for recognition and safeguarding. They provide guidelines for communities to identify their own practices that need preservation and encourage global awareness about the importance of maintaining cultural diversity. By designating specific traditions as intangible cultural heritage, UNESCO helps elevate their status and encourages governments to implement measures that protect these elements from threats posed by globalization and modernization.

Related terms

Cultural Practices: Activities that are performed by a community which embody their beliefs, values, and traditions, often contributing to their identity.

Oral Traditions: Stories, songs, and other forms of verbal communication that are transmitted orally from one generation to another, preserving cultural knowledge.

Traditional Knowledge: The knowledge systems developed by indigenous and local communities over time, encompassing various aspects such as agriculture, health care, and natural resource management.