In this resource you will be exploring the ways that culture spreads, withdraws, changes, and remains the same. You will study examples of American cultural influence in other countries, as well as cultures that influence American life and landscape.
You may not be familiar with the terms convergence and divergence, so let’s first look closely at their meanings.
Now that you have a better understanding of each of the three terms, think about the terms in another context. Placing the term, cultural, in front of each of the new terms will put the meaning in a different context for each.
Cultural convergence occurs when cultures become more alike. Communication serves as an example of cultural convergence. The global spread of the English language brings cultures together through the ease of communication. As globalization increases, especially through international business, the need for improved communication also increases. As a result, English is fast becoming the standard global language.
Click on the boxes below to display areas of the world where English is either the official language or the primary language. Then, click on any portion of the map to enlarge it.
→ Analyzing the Map: Based on the map above, in which part of the world is English the dominant or official language? Interactive popup. Assistance may be required.
Canada, United States, the British Isles, and Australia
The English language is also spread through music, movies, and television. Justin Bieber, pictured below, is a Canadian singer who is popular worldwide. His music appeals to millions of fans all over the world. Bieber has also been featured on film and television. At age 18, he was named the third most powerful celebrity in the world by Forbes Magazine.
Source: Justin Bieber, 2011 2, Adam Sundana, Wikipedia
→ Think about this: Why do you think Justin Bieber is so popular worldwide? Does Bieber’s music and media presence contribute to the spread of the English language? Support your answer with examples.
In contrast to cultural convergence, cultural divergence occurs when cultures grow apart and become less similar. A historic example of cultural divergence stems from the separation of Taiwan and China. Traditionally, both countries shared many of the same cultural traits such as the same language and ethnicity. The divergence occurred as a result of a political conflict in 1949, the Communist Revolution.
The two countries split socially and economically. Taiwan took on the democratic ideas, while China became a communist country.
Source: Map, East & Southeast Asia: China, Central Intelligence Agency
Read the current statistics about each country to learn how each country changed.
China |
Taiwan |
|
| Population: 1,343,239,923 | Population: 22,234,936 | |
| Religion: Daoist (Taoist), Buddhist, Christian 3%-4%, Muslim 1%-2% note: officially atheist | Religion: Buddhist/Taoist (93%), Christian (4.5%), and other (2.5%) | |
| Ethnic groups: Han Chinese 91.5%, Zhuang, Manchu, Hui, Miao, Uighur, Tujia, Yi, Mongol, Tibetan, Buyi, Dong, Yao, Korean, and other nationalities 8.5% | Ethnic groups: Taiwanese (including Hakka) 84%, mainland Chinese 14%, indigenous 2% | |
| Languages: Mandarin Chinese (official), Taiwanese (Min), Hakka dialects | Languages: Mandarin Chinese (official), Taiwanese (Min), Hakka dialects | |
| Government: Communist State | Government: Multiparty Democracy | |
| Economy : Market-oriented economy | Economy: Capitalist economy |
→ Quick Reflection: What are the similarities of each culture? What are the differences? The religious makeup of China indicates that it is officially atheist (non-belief, no religious belief). Why do you think China does not have more official religious groups?
Watch this video about tourism in Taiwan.
Source: Taiwan's China Tourism Boost, CNN, You Tube
After watching the video, answer the following questions in your notes.
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Chinese tourists want to learn more about the Taiwanese culture. They want to learn about the people, the environment, and how the Taiwanese feel about China.
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Sun Moon Lake, Tapei 101, city skylines, Shilin Market for food, Jade sculptures
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It is an example of the conflict that drove the two countries apart. It also serves as a reminder of the constant military presence that keeps them apart.
The current status of China and Taiwan is an example of how cultural divergence can have a lasting impact on the cultural landscape.