3.6 Contemporary Causes of Cultural Patterns

Cultural convergence vs. divergence

Globalization and improved transportation/communication technologies push cultures toward convergence, sharing similar traits, goods, and ideas worldwide. At the same time, some groups resist homogenization through cultural divergence, deliberately preserving or reviving distinct traditions, languages, or practices to maintain identity in the face of outside influence.

Time-space compression

Time-space compression describes how modern transportation and communication (planes, internet, satellites) shrink the perceived distance between places, speeding the spread of culture. Diffusion once dependent on slow migration or trade now happens almost instantly, accelerating cultural convergence and blending local customs with global influences.

Local responses to globalization

Global cultural flows don't erase local identity — they often blend with it. Glocalization occurs when global products or ideas are adapted to fit local tastes (e.g., McDonald's offering region-specific menus). Meanwhile, reactionary movements and ethnic nationalism can emerge as backlash, emphasizing traditional or nationalist identity against perceived outside cultural threats.

Key terms

Cultural convergence

The process by which cultures become more similar due to increased global interaction and exchange.

Cultural divergence

The process by which groups maintain or strengthen distinct cultural identities, resisting outside influence.

Time-space compression

The shrinking of perceived distance between places due to improved transportation and communication technology.

Glocalization

The adaptation of global products, ideas, or practices to fit local cultures and preferences.

Reactionary/ethnic nationalist movements

Backlash movements that emphasize traditional, local, or national identity in response to globalization's homogenizing effects.

Try an AP-style question

Globalization has spread culture mainly through…

1. colonization only
2. media, trade, and communication
3. military conquest only
4. isolation