Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

How is cultural diffusion best described?

1. The isolation of cultural groups from each other

2. The process of culture spreading from one region to another

3. The preservation of traditional cultural practices

4. The enhancement of local cultures through globalization

The correct answer is: The process of culture spreading from one region to another

Cultural diffusion is best described as the process of culture spreading from one region to another. This concept encompasses various methods through which cultural elements—such as ideas, customs, technologies, and religions—are transmitted from one society or area to another. This can occur through direct interaction, trade, migration, or even technological innovations that allow for easier communication and exchange between different cultures. Cultural diffusion plays a crucial role in shaping societies, fostering diversity, and contributing to the development of new cultural practices as people adapt and integrate differing cultural influences. It is a fundamental mechanism of change in the social landscape, showcasing how cultural interactions can lead to hybrid forms and transformations across geographic boundaries. The other aspects—like isolation of cultural groups or preservation of traditional practices—focus on stagnation or resistance to outside influences, rather than the active process of cultural exchange. While globalization can enhance local cultures, this too is a broader consequence of cultural diffusion rather than a description of the diffusion itself. Therefore, the identification of cultural diffusion as the process of spreading culture directly encapsulates the dynamic and integrative nature of how cultural elements are shared and adopted across different regions.