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assimilation

Definition

Assimilation is the process through which individuals or groups of differing ethnic heritage are absorbed into the dominant culture of a society. It involves the adoption of the cultural norms of the dominant or host culture, to the point where the assimilating group becomes indistinguishable from that culture.

Related terms

Cultural pluralism: The coexistence of diverse cultures in a society, where each retains its own identity and yet contributes to the shared national life.

Melting pot: A metaphor for a heterogeneous society becoming more homogeneous by blending various ethnicities and cultures into a common culture.

Multiculturalism: An approach that recognizes, values, and promotes diversity within a society without necessitating full assimilation by all groups

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.