3.6a cultural diffusion

Question 1

how does cultural diffusion occur?

Answer 1

migration and tourism

• brings people in contact with new cultures
• circulates language, ideas, values, traditions and beliefs around the world

global media networks e.g. Disney, CNN, BBC

• e.g. Western festivals of Christmas + Halloween feature prominently in Disney movies
• have a disproportionately
  large influence over the global media and entertainment business
• ‘white wedding’ is the dominant global wedding style bc of Disney

TNCs e.g. Nike, Apple, Lego spread their brands + products around the world

Question 2

impacts of cultural diffusion

Answer 2

NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR DISADVANTAGED GROUPS

• cultural attitudes towards disability are changing on a global scale
• 1983-1992 was declared the decade of disabled person by the UN
• global media has helped turn the Paralympic Games into one of the biggest sporting events by celebrating the achievements of elite athletes with disabilities
• it is estimated that by 2100, half of the world’s languages will disappear
• spread of a western diet (high fat, high sugar, fast food based) –> reinforced by the rapid spread of global supermarket chains and fast food restaurants
  LINKING TO rising obesity and diabetes in emerging countries

Question 3

what is cultural diffusion

Answer 3

western countries shape global culture through their power and influence over global networks