Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

Which term describes the spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another?

1. Cultural assimilation

2. Cultural diffusion

3. Cultural integration

4. Cultural relativism

The correct answer is: Cultural diffusion

The term that describes the spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another is cultural diffusion. This concept encompasses the processes by which cultural elements such as ideas, practices, technologies, and languages are spread from one society or cultural group to another. Cultural diffusion can occur through various means, including trade, migration, and communication, leading to the sharing and integration of different cultural elements over time. Understanding cultural diffusion is crucial because it illustrates how cultures interact and influence each other, resulting in a dynamic exchange that can lead to the transformation of cultural identities. It highlights the interconnectedness of communities and the ongoing evolution of cultural practices across geographic and social boundaries. Cultural assimilation, in contrast, refers to the process by which individuals or groups adopt the cultural traits of another group, often leading to the loss of their original culture. Cultural integration involves the mixing of different cultures and can sometimes suggest a more harmonious blending than diffusion alone. Cultural relativism is an anthropological principle that promotes understanding and evaluating cultural practices within their own context, without bias or judgment.