What does "cultural assimilation" refer to?

Cultural assimilation refers to the process where members of one cultural group adopt the customs, values, and behaviors of another culture, leading to a blending or resembling of cultural practices. This often occurs when individuals from a minority culture integrate into a dominant culture, resulting in a significant change in their cultural identity. Over time, as the influences of the dominant culture grow stronger, the original cultural traits may diminish, and the two cultures may become more similar.

This concept is significant in discussions about immigration and multicultural societies, as it highlights how cultural dynamics shift when groups interact. Understanding cultural assimilation helps to illustrate the complexities of identity, belonging, and social change within diverse populations, making it a crucial aspect of human cultural geography.