the+process


 * Socio-cultural Exchange **

Cultural Traits can be characterized in terms of:
 * language
 * customs
 * beliefs
 * dress
 * images
 * music
 * food
 * technology.

Key terms
 * ** Cultural diffusion ** – it is the spread of cultural traits from one place to another through the processes of cultural change. There are a number of types:
 * **Expansion diffusion**- occurs when an idea develops in a source area and spreads into other areas while remaining strong at the source. E.g. spread of Islam from Saudi Arabia
 * **Relocation diffusion** – people who have adopted new ideas carry with them to a new location. E.g. Christianity to Africa from Europe.
 * **Contact zones** – colonies and trading areas that have come under the influence of a new culture.
 * **Distance decay effect** - The longer an idea takes and the further the distance it has to travel, the less likely it is to be adopted in new areas.
 * **Adoption of mass cultur**e – new cultural traits are taken in their entirety, perhaps abandoning old traditions
 * **Adaptation/ Adaption of mass culture** –cultural traits are modified so it can be accommodated within the context of an existing culture.
 * **Cultural Hybridity**- the extent to which different cultures are intermixed. Mixing of cultures can occur through; migration, media, transport revolution, Growth of global brands and even the internet.

// Question: Examine the diffusion of cultural traits resulting from the international movement of workers, tourists and commodities. //
 * Processes of cultural diffusion **
 * The international movement of workers,
 * Tourists migrating to areas that were unknown
 * establishment of trading links in areas that produced goods different from the home areas
 * Exploration by traders of areas around the world
 * Investment in new areas by traders and the repatriation of profits.
 * Conquest and colonization by trading power, and imposing new systems of gov’t and culture on local populations