The distinctive patterns of ideas, beliefs, and norms which
characterise the way of life and relations of a society or group
within a society
Culturally determined gender ideologies define rights and
responsibilities and what is ‘appropriate’ behaviour for women and
men. They also influence access to and control over resources,
and participation in decision-making. These gender ideologies
often reinforce male power and the idea of women’s inferiority.
Culture is sometimes interpreted narrowly as ‘custom’ or
‘tradition’, and assumed to be natural and unchangeable. Despite
these assumptions, culture is fluid and enduring.