No, not all cultural objects need to have inherent meaning to be considered cultural objects. Here’s why:

• Meaning is Subjective: The meaning an object holds can vary greatly depending on the individual or group interpreting it. An object might seem trivial to one person but hold deep significance for another based on personal experiences or cultural background.
• Meaning Evolves: The meaning of cultural objects can change over time. A traditional garment might be purely practical initially, but later become a symbol of cultural identity.

Examples:

• Meaning Saturated:
  • The American Flag: Represents patriotism, freedom, and national identity.
  • The Liberty Bell: Symbolizes the fight for freedom and abolitionism.
  • Baseball: Evokes tradition, nostalgia, and American identity.
• Seemingly Meaningless:
  • A disposable coffee cup: Functional object, seemingly devoid of deeper meaning.
  • A traffic cone: Serves a practical purpose of directing traffic, might not hold inherent cultural significance.
  • A blue jeans: Common clothing item, may not have a specific cultural meaning on its own.

Why the Distinction?

• Cultural Significance: Objects become “exalted” when they resonate with a large segment of the culture and represent shared values, history, or experiences. The flag and Liberty Bell connect to national identity, making them culturally significant.
• Everyday vs. Extraordinary: Objects used daily might be overlooked, while those tied to historical events or cultural movements gain more attention. A traffic cone is a mundane object, while the Liberty Bell becomes a symbol due to its historical significance.
• Both are Cultural: Even seemingly meaningless objects can be part of a culture. They reflect the way people live, consume, and navigate their daily lives. The disposable coffee cup, though practical, reflects the fast-paced, “grab-and-go” nature of modern life.

Durkheim’s Sacred and Profane:

There are similarities to Durkheim’s ideas. The sacred objects (like the flag) inspire reverence and respect, separate from the ordinary (profane) objects like a coffee cup. However, the distinction isn’t always clear-cut. A blue jean jacket might be ordinary wear, but become a symbol of rebellion for a subculture like punk rockers.

In conclusion, cultural objects don’t need inherent meaning to be cultural. Their significance is subjective and evolves over time. Both “meaningful” and “meaningless” objects can be part of a culture, reflecting different aspects of shared experiences and values.