Unit 2 When Cultures Collide Cultural Change

When different cultures meet and interact (collide), at times the results can be disastrous

But at times, when different cultures meet and interact (collide), the results are not always disastrous. For instance when different cultures meet and interact (collide), we get: New Ideas in Society Changes in Natural Environment

New Ideas in Society

New ideas in society, changes in natural environment and technology can affect culture.

The invention of the car made it possible for people to live farther from their jobs and allowed them to drive to work.

Changes in Natural Environment

There are many ways for ideas to change. One way is when people move to a different area. A second way is when people obtain goods from another culture by trade.

New technology, especially in the area of communication technology has greatly increased the speed at which ideas are exchanged, in turn speeding up the process of cultural change.

The movement of customs and ideas is known as cultural diffusion.

The history of blue jeans is an example of many different cultures contributing to the style of the jeans.

The process of accepting new ideas and fitting them into a culture is known as acculturation.

An example of acculturation can be found in Japan. The Japanese have changed the game of baseball to fit their culture.

Hope you have a clearer view of Cultures Colliding or interacting – it isn’t always bad!