What does cultural diffusion refer to?

Cultural diffusion refers to the process by which cultural beliefs, social activities, and practices spread from one group to another. This phenomenon occurs through various means, including trade, migration, and communication, allowing distinctive cultural traits such as language, religion, cuisine, and customs to be shared and adopted across different societies.

As cultures interact and exchange ideas, they can influence one another, leading to the enrichment of local cultures and the emergence of new cultural forms. This dynamic contributes significantly to the diversity seen in populations around the world and highlights the interconnectedness of human societies. Understanding cultural diffusion helps illustrate how cultural identities evolve over time in response to social changes and interactions.