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.
Analogy
Assimilation can be likened to adding a teaspoon of sugar to a cup of tea; initially, it retains its distinct form, but as it dissolves, it becomes part of the tea, altering its taste but losing its original structure. Just as sugar integrates into tea, individuals or groups integrate into another culture, adopting its customs and blending in.
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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