Assimilation

Assimilation refers to the process by which individuals or groups adopt the cultural norms, values, and practices of a dominant society, often losing distinct cultural identities in the process. This sociological concept is commonly studied in the context of immigration, where minority groups adapt to mainstream cultural expectations to integrate into a host society. While assimilation can facilitate social cohesion, it is often critiqued for erasing cultural diversity and reinforcing power dynamics that prioritize dominant group norms. Sociologists examine assimilation to understand its effects on identity, social mobility, and intergroup relations. The term is contrasted with multiculturalism, which values the coexistence of diverse cultures.