ABSTRACT
This introduction provides an outline of the content of this book. Besides reflecting on the necessity of such a book, culture is positioned in relation to other central aspects like personality and society. Regarding what is generally termed culture, due consideration is given to the variety of conceptualisations to date. It is pointed out that, although there is no encompassing definition of culture, it is necessary for those who work on culture to outline a working definition in order to clarify the aspects taken. Furthermore, it is noted that certain perspectives are indispensable for understanding culture. As cultures consist of humans, and as culture is an effect of human interaction, disciplines such as psychology and semiotics provide helpful approaches for analysing culture-related phenomena.
