Question

Which of the following statements are true about cultural assimilation ?
a. Cultural assimilation is the process by which a minority group adopts the customs and attitudes of the prevailing culture.
b. Cultural assimilation always leads to the complete loss of the minority group's original culture.
c. Cultural assimilation can result in the blending of cultures, creating a new, diverse society. Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

• A. a and b only
• B. b and c only
• C. a and c only
• D. a, b and c

Hint:

Consider the spectrum of cultural interaction: from complete assimilation (loss of original culture) to integration (blending of cultures) to separation (retention of original culture). Assimilation doesn't always mean total loss.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Define Cultural Assimilation.
Cultural assimilation is the process by which individuals or groups from a minority culture adopt the language, values, norms, and behaviors of the dominant or host culture in a society.
Step 2: Analyze Statement 'a': "Cultural assimilation is the process by which a minority group adopts the customs and attitudes of the prevailing culture."
This statement directly aligns with the definition of cultural assimilation. It describes the phenomenon of a minority group taking on the cultural traits of the majority.
Conclusion for 'a': True.
Step 3: Analyze Statement 'b': "Cultural assimilation always leads to the complete loss of the minority group's original culture."
This statement presents an extreme view of cultural assimilation.
While some degree of cultural loss is common, complete erasure of the original culture is not a guaranteed outcome. Factors such as the resilience of the minority culture, the openness of the dominant culture to diversity, and the maintenance of cultural practices within the minority group can influence the extent of cultural loss.
Acculturation, a related process, often involves retaining aspects of the original culture while adopting the new one.
Conclusion for 'b': False.
Step 4: Analyze Statement 'c': "Cultural assimilation can result in the blending of cultures, creating a new, diverse society."
This statement highlights a potential outcome of cultural contact and assimilation. When different cultures interact, there can be a mutual exchange of ideas, customs, and practices, leading to the emergence of new cultural forms and a more heterogeneous society. This blending is often seen in immigrant societies where various cultures contribute to a new, evolving cultural landscape. While the primary direction of assimilation is towards the dominant culture, the process is rarely unidirectional and can lead to syncretism. Conclusion for 'c': True. Step 5: Evaluate the options based on the truthfulness of statements 'a', 'b', and 'c'.
Option (1) includes 'b', which is false.
Option (2) includes 'b', which is false.
Option (3) includes 'a' (true) and 'c' (true).
Option (4) includes 'b', which is false.
Step 6: Select the option containing only the true statements.
The true statements about cultural assimilation are 'a' and 'c'. Therefore, option (3) is the correct answer.