Cultural Diffusion

What is Cultural Diffusion? Spread of ideas, styles, religions, technologies, foods, and languages within a single culture or throughout different cultures There are 4 main types of cultural diffusion

1. Expansion Diffusion Expansion Diffusion: Idea that develops in an area and remains strong there while also spreading to other areas (McDonald’s)

2. Relocation Diffusion Relocation Diffusion: Idea that develops in an area but moves to different places, leaving behind its origin (Indians removed from their land and relocated)

3. Hierarchical Diffusion Hierarchical Diffusion: Idea that moves from larger to smaller places without regard to the distance between places (Missionaries who try to convert for sake of religion)

4. Contagious Diffusion Contagious Diffusion: Idea based on person to person contact within a given population (When Christians spread Christianity in the early 1st century through word of mouth.)

Brainstorm- How Can This Happen? Technology- computers, telephone, internet, etc. Communication- language, technology, cultural practices and customs Transportation- planes, trains, cars, ships, etc. to transport goods and ideas