Volksgeist

Volksgeist, a German term meaning "the spirit of the people," refers to the collective cultural identity, values, traditions, and shared customs that shape a nation's character. It suggests that the unique worldview and societal traits of a community are influenced by its history, language, and collective experiences. This concept emphasizes that each society has an intrinsic, distinctive essence that influences its art, literature, and social behaviors. Essentially, Volksgeist highlights how a community's identity is rooted in its common cultural spirit, reflecting the unique qualities that define a nation's overall character.