The Good and the Bad: 6 Culture Assimilation Examples in Contemporary Society
When people move to a new country, they often encounter new cultures and traditions that they may not be familiar with. This process of assimilating into a new culture can be challenging, and it comes with both positive and negative consequences. In this article, we’ll explore six examples of culture assimilation in contemporary society.
1. Food
One of the most enjoyable aspects of assimilating into a new culture is trying different foods. When people move to a new country, they often discover new cuisines that they hadn’t tried before. For example, someone who moves from Mexico to the United States might try a cheeseburger for the first time. However, sometimes this process can negatively impact traditional cuisines or lead to cultural appropriation.
2. Fashion
Another way that people assimilate into new cultures is through fashion. People often adopt clothing styles that are popular in the new country they’ve moved to. This can lead to positive exchanges of fashion ideas among cultures. However, it can also lead to appropriation and the erasure of traditional clothing styles.
3. Language
Learning a new language is essential to assimilating into a new culture. Understanding the language helps people integrate better into society, connect with locals, and get adequate information about their new home. Although some people may struggle with the language barrier, learning a new language can be a positive experience overall.
4. Workplaces
Workplaces can be another platform for culture assimilation. When people join the workforce, they encounter new work cultures that differ from previous ones. This might include differences in work hours, communication style, and management style. Adapting to the new work culture can lead to improved productivity, job satisfaction, and professional growth. However, it can also come with negative effects such as increased stress or feeling like an outsider.
5. Music
Music is a universal language that can unite people from different cultures. Listening to music from different countries can introduce people to new styles and rhythms. However, it’s essential to appreciate the music while respecting the cultural background behind it.
6. Family Structures
Moving to a new country can also affect family structures and dynamics. Traditional family values and norms might differ from those of the new culture, which can cause tension among family members. However, families who navigate these challenges together often become stronger, and it can lead to a better understanding of each other’s cultures.
In conclusion, culture assimilation can be a positive experience as long as individuals and societies approach it with respect and sensitivity. Assimilating into a new culture can lead to personal growth, a broader perspective, and a more inclusive society. However, it’s essential to protect traditional cultures from erasure or appropriation while making room for positive exchanges between cultures.
