Celtic Culture

For all intents and purposes, the people that exist on this planet today are a genetically homogeneous species. While small genetic variants can be found from one geographic region to another, the difference in the human genome is remarkably small. Race is a social construct and, thus, the only factor that truly differentiates us from one another is our culture.

So, that said, what defines a culture?

A shared language is intrinsic - allowing for rituals, symbols, social norms, and beliefs to be communicated effectively. Flourishing cultures also reveal themselves through their cuisine, mythologies, music, art, and so forth.

The Celts are renowned for their culture - one that is steeped in legends and lore, with deep connections to the natural world. Although ancient, with roots dating back to the Iron Age, Celtic culture continues to thrive today as a touchstone for spiritual movements, environmental sustainability, craftmanship, and festive celebrations.

Similarly Celtic music has traversed the ages and can still be found across the globe in traditional pub settings, onstage at festivals, and in the studio as collaborative fusions.

It is interesting to note the upsurge in Pan-Celtic sentiment in the 19th century. Formed to strengthen the bonds between Celtic Nations along political and cultural ideologies, several organizations tackled the question of what constitutes a culture. Some advocated selfgovernance, whereas others focused on the promotion of the Celtic language. As can be expected, controversy ensued while attempting to define the inclusion criteria. When Galicia and Asturias (Spain) applied, their requests were rejected based on the lack of a discernable Celtic language in the regions. The Celtic languages are Irish Gaelic, Scottish Gaelic, Welsh, Cornish, and Breton, and are still spoken by millions of people today. The existence of archaeological evidence, shared history and the presence of more Celtic words being used in the current language than either French or English, has thus far not swayed the decision for inclusion.

So, revisiting the question of what distinguishes a culture - is it a common language, religious beliefs, epic legends? It may encompass all of these, but - more pertinently perhaps - it is the ability to survive and thrive. Culture is an organic and evolving process - it is embodied by the blending of bagpipes and jazz in Central Park, the appearance of ancient Celtic knots on modern facades, and it exists in the spirit and souls of those who know the importance of nurturing it.

“The Celts were deeply inspired by their surroundings, often reflected in the creation of intricate and symbolic designs.