What is the term for tangible objects and possessions that make up a society's material context?

The term for tangible objects and possessions that make up a society's material context is "Material Culture." This concept encompasses all physical items that people create and attach meaning to within their social reality, including tools, buildings, artwork, clothing, and technology. Material culture is significant because it reflects the values, beliefs, and norms of a society, providing insight into how individuals interact with their environment and each other.

In contrast, non-material culture refers to the intangible aspects of a culture, such as beliefs, values, and social norms, while symbolic culture focuses specifically on the symbols and meanings that people assign to objects and experiences. Folk culture is typically associated with the traditions and practices of a particular group, often passed down through generations, but it does not explicitly refer to material possessions. Understanding material culture is essential for sociologists as it allows them to examine how material objects influence social interactions and the organization of societies.