Who stated culture is the ‘man made part of the environment’?

The statement that "culture is the 'man-made part of the environment'" is attributed to Leslie A. White, an American anthropologist who made significant contributions to the study of culture and social evolution. White was known for his work in cultural anthropology, particularly his theory of cultural evolution, which emphasized the role of technology and energy consumption in shaping human societies.

Leslie A. White's Perspective on Culture

White viewed culture as a distinctive feature of human societies, encompassing the beliefs, customs, values, artifacts, and social institutions that characterize a particular group or community. He emphasized the dynamic and adaptive nature of culture, arguing that it evolves over time in response to changes in technology, environment, and social organization.

The Man-Made Part of the Environment

White's assertion that culture is the "man-made part of the environment" reflects his view of culture as a product of human creativity and ingenuity. He saw culture as a means by which humans adapt to and transform their environment, using knowledge, technology, and social organization to meet their needs and pursue their goals.

Implications of the Statement

By describing culture as the "man-made part of the environment," White underscored the distinctive role of human agency in shaping social and cultural systems. He highlighted the ways in which human societies actively modify their environment and create cultural systems to navigate and exploit natural resources, social relationships, and technological innovations.

Legacy and Influence

Leslie A. White's ideas continue to influence anthropological and sociological thought, particularly in the study of cultural evolution and social change. His emphasis on the relationship between culture, technology, and environment paved the way for interdisciplinary approaches to understanding human societies and their interactions with the natural world.

Conclusion

The statement that "culture is the 'man-made part of the environment'" encapsulates Leslie A. White's perspective on the dynamic relationship between culture and the natural world. By recognizing culture as a product of human agency and creativity, White highlighted the transformative power of human societies in shaping their social and environmental landscapes. His ideas have left a lasting legacy in anthropology and continue to inform scholarly inquiry into the complexities of culture, society, and the environment.