The Role of Cultural Heritage in Shaping Modern Identity: A Comparative Study of Eastern and Western Perspectives

Cultural heritage plays a crucial role in shaping modern identity, influencing both individual and collective experiences. This paper examines the impact of cultural heritage on the formation of modern identities by comparing Eastern and Western perspectives. It explores how traditional practices, rituals, and beliefs contribute to identity in Eastern cultures, with a focus on ancestral worship and family heritage. In contrast, Western societies emphasize the preservation of tangible cultural heritage through museums and institutions. The paper also addresses the tension between cultural preservation and modernization, particularly in the context of globalization. The findings underscore the importance of balancing heritage protection with contemporary development and the role of education in this process.