AB Human Geography: Culture and Diffusion

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to culture and diffusion in human geography.

Material Culture

Physical objects, artifacts, or items that hold significance to individuals or society.

Non Material Culture

Intangible elements of culture, such as ideas, beliefs, values, languages, and customs.

Subculture

A group within a larger culture that shares distinct beliefs, values, and practices that differ from the main culture.

Folk Culture

A homogenous culture that emphasizes community and resists modern trends, often preserving traditional practices.

Modern Culture

Also known as pop culture, it originates in economically developed regions, emphasizing individualism and is constantly evolving.

Cultural Landscape

The visible human modifications of the natural environment, reflecting cultural practices, architecture, and land use.

Sense of Place

A strong emotional connection or perception a person has of a specific geographic area.

Ethnocentrism

Viewing another culture through one's own cultural lens, leading to judgment based on that perspective.

Cultural Relativism

Evaluating another culture by its own standards rather than imposing one's own cultural values.

Diffusion

The spread of a cultural item, group of people, or phenomenon from one place to another.

Relocation Diffusion

Involves the physical movement of a culture or group from one place to another.

Expansion Diffusion

The spread of a cultural trait or group from one place to another without the displacement of the original population.

Contagious Diffusion

The spread of a cultural trait happens in all directions without regard to social class or other characteristics.

Hierarchical Diffusion

Diffusion that occurs through a structured system, typically from top to bottom.

Stimulus Diffusion

When an idea or trait spreads from one culture to another and is adapted to fit the local culture.

Universalizing Religions

Religions that seek to appeal to all people and expand their teachings worldwide.

Ethnic Religions

Religions that are closely connected to a specific ethnic or cultural group and do not actively seek converts.

Cultural Resistance

Opposition to the diffusion of cultural traits due to fear of losing one's original culture or due to negative stereotypes.

Multiculturalism

A societal framework that encourages diversity and co-existence of multiple cultures.

Creolization

The process of two cultures coming together to form a new, distinct culture.