Contemporary Causes of Diffusion

Introduction

• Diffusion: The spread of a cultural element, item, group of people, or phenomenon from one place to another.
• Focus: Contemporary causes of diffusion.

Key Factors Influencing Contemporary Diffusion

1. Globalization

• Increased interconnectedness between countries.
• Facilitates the exchange of ideas, cultures, goods, and services.

2. Urbanization

• Higher rates of people moving to urban areas lead to diverse cultural exchanges.

3. Technological Advancements

• Time-Space Convergence: As technology improves, connectivity between different cultures and people increases.
• Reduction of Distance Decay: Easier communication reduces the impact of geographic distance.
• Social Media: Platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter promote rapid idea and culture sharing.

Technological Impact on Workspace

• Online conferencing facilitates remote work, expanding talent search beyond geographic limits.
• US Census data shows a rise in remote work from 5.7% to 17.9% between 2019 and 2021 due to the pandemic.

Cultural Dynamics

1. Cultural Divergence

• Separation from one's culture due to physical separation or exposure to new cultures.
• Resistance from folk or indigenous cultures to modern technology.

2. Cultural Convergence

• Different cultures blend into a unified global culture, often modern or pop culture.

The Role of the Internet

• Promotes English as a lingua franca.
• Influences through media, internet, films, and social media.

Globalization and Diffusion

• Interconnected supply chains, businesses, economies, and governments.
• Hierarchical diffusion: Traits spread from global cities to urban areas and then to smaller communities.

Conclusion

• Technology, urbanization, and globalization continually connect people and places, leading to increased diffusion.
• Introduction to new cultures and ideas globally.

Additional Resources

• Check out the "Ultimate Review Packet" for more AP Human Geography studies.

Presenter: Mr. Sin

Thank you for attending the lecture! Remember to review and practice the concepts covered.