What is the term for a social or cultural group that shares beliefs and behaviors, distinguishing itself from the broader culture?

The term that describes a social or cultural group sharing specific beliefs and behaviors, which sets it apart from the broader culture, is subculture. A subculture typically encompasses a smaller segment of the larger society, having its own unique styles, values, and practices that can differ from the mainstream. This distinctiveness can manifest in various forms, such as fashion, music, language, or ideologies, creating a sense of identity among its members.

In contrast, culture refers to the overarching system of practices, norms, and values that characterize a society as a whole, rather than a specific group within it. Society itself is a broader concept that includes all the social relationships and institutions that combine to form a community. Meanwhile, a community usually refers to a group of individuals living in a specific geographic area who may share social ties, but it does not necessarily imply the distinct beliefs and behaviors that characterize a subculture.

Recognizing the specific characteristics of a subculture helps to understand how different groups navigate and express their identities within the larger social context.