Does Culture Define Institutions or Do Institutions Define Culture?

According to the web site http://www.yourdictionary.com/, an institution can be defined as a custom, practice, relationship, or behavioral pattern of importance in the life of a community or society: the institutions of marriage and the family. Also, it mentions “an established organization or foundation, especially one dedicated to education, public service, or culture.”

Institutions are founded with a specific purpose. I consider that their success basically depends on the principles, values and rules that govern them. The role of culture is fundamental for the establishment of every institution; they are the result of hard work. I believe that culture defines institutions because individuals are the ones who shape them according to their values and thoughts.

However, some institutions such as educational institutions also define the way individuals think. For example, if an individual has the opportunity to study in college this makes him/her conscious of many things they were not aware. In this case the role of this kind of institutions is essential for society. Another example is religious institutions which are really significant for many people because they can learn to guide their lives according to God's principles and discern what is the most convenient for their lives.

Through the years many institutions become an essential part of our lives. Base on our culture we define institutions, but at the same time they shape our lives and have a significant role in them in many diverse ways.