Discussion Post: International Migration and the Diffusion of Culture
In Module 8, we examined the concept of Relocation Diffusion. Relocation diffusion is diffusion that occurs as a result of people migrating from one place to another place. When people migrate from one country to another country, they invariably bring with them their cultural values and beliefs, language, religious beliefs, tastes in food, drink, music, sport etc. In Module 8, we examined a case study of German migration to the United States during the 19th century. One of the cultural tastes that German immigrants brought with them was a love for beer and; in particular, a type of beer called Lager. German immigrants were responsible for introducing Lager to the United States. Today, it is the most popular type of beer in the United States.
Some of you may be immigrants to the United States. I, myself, am an immigrant. I was born and grew up in Scotland and migrated to the United States when I was 22 years old. Some of you may have parents and/or grandparents that were born in another country and migrated to the United States.
For this discussion question, I'd like you to consider one (or both) of the following questions:
• If you or a parent/grandparent migrated to the United States from another country are there any cultural values and beliefs, language, religious beliefs, tastes in food, drink, music, sports, etc. that are still important to you and your family and that you still practice, observe, or engage in. Pick one or more of these and tell us something about it. Why do you still practice, observe, or engage in it? Why is it important to you?
OR
• If you or other family members do not practice, observe, or engage in activities etc. that can be traced back to your family's country or countries of origin, think about how you are still impacted by or have been made aware of the cultural values and practices of international migrants. For example, it may be that you have a favorite food that has its origins in another county, or a sport that you play. It may be that you have friends who grew up in another country and they have made you aware of different cultural values or practices. Think about the town or city you grew up in or live in now. Is there evidence on the landscape of cultural values or practices (e.g. restaurants, retail stores, sports clubs, etc.) that have their origins in other countries?
The response should include a reference list. Using double-space, Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.