Material culture refers to the physical objects, resources, and spaces that people use to define their culture. This includes items like tools, clothing, buildings, and art. These tangible elements reflect the values, beliefs, and practices of a society, providing insight into how people live and interact with their environment.
Studying material culture helps researchers understand historical and contemporary lifestyles. For example, artifacts such as pottery or furniture can reveal information about daily life, trade, and social structures. By examining these objects, scholars can gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of items in different societies, such as Indigenous artifacts or ancient architecture.