Questions and Answers
Where did classic assimilation theory begin from?
Based in a US context.
How did Park and Burgess (1921) define assimilation?
A process of interpenetration and fusion in which migrants adopt the norms and values of the country they migrated to.
What is Milton Gordon's (1964) assimilation into American life show?
How is classic assimilation theory criticized?
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What did Glazer (1997) argue about assimilation?
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How is assimilation seen as a variable outcome? (Depending on three factors)
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According to Brubaker (2001), how is new assimilation theory different from classic assimilation theory?
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What is meant by the 'return of assimilation' (Brubaker, 2001)?
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What did Warner and Srole's study find?
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How did Milton Gordon (1964) define acculturation?
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What did Milton Gordon (1964) argue about assimilation and culture?
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What did Milton Gordon (1964) predict would happen as a result of assimilation?
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What are the seven types of assimilation that Milton Gordon (1964) identified?
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What did Brubaker (2001) mean by the shift from the transitive to the intransitive?
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According to Glazer (1993), assimilation is not ___.
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What was the difference between Asians and blacks in America?
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Study Notes
Classic Assimilation Theory
- Originated in the US context, focusing on the integration of migrants into American society.
- Park and Burgess (1921) defined assimilation as interpenetration and fusion, where migrants adopt the norms and values of the host country.
Milton Gordon’s Contribution
- Gordon (1964) outlined assimilation into American life, emphasizing its impact on ethnic identity.
- Defined acculturation as the adoption of cultural patterns by ethnic groups in the host country.
- Predicted assimilation would decrease discrimination and intermarriage while diminishing minorities' separate identities.
- Identified seven types of assimilation: structural, cultural, marital, identity, prejudice, discrimination, and civic.
Critiques of Classical Theory
- Criticized for assuming assimilation is inevitable and ethnocentric, viewing white Protestant culture as the ideal standard.
- Overlooks other cultural influences and the revival of ethnic identities, which are increasingly viewed as resources rather than barriers.
Glazer’s Perspective
- Glazer (1997) noted that although the term "assimilation" may be unpopular, the concept remains relevant and continues to evolve.
Variable Outcomes of Assimilation
- Assimilation outcomes depend on several factors:
- Institutions, norms, and values.
- Individual choices, such as language selection.
- Types of social networks, categorized as 'strong' or 'weak' ties.
New Assimilation Theory
- Brubaker (2001) introduced a differentiated view, noting that assimilation is not inevitable or desirable, capturing its complexities.
- Described the 'return of assimilation' as a process of unintended similarity that focuses on generations and socio-economic factors rather than just cultural aspects.
Warner and Srole’s Study
- Found that while all migrants tend toward assimilation, variations do exist among different ethnic groups.
Transition in Understanding Assimilation
- Brubaker (2001) emphasized a shift from viewing assimilation as a destination to understanding it as a dynamic process influenced by active migrants.
- Contrasted transitive (migrants as moldable) with intransitive (migrants as active agents) models of assimilation.
Differences in Assimilation Patterns
- Notable differences in assimilation rates between Asian and Black populations in America, with Asians showing higher rates of intermarriage and integration compared to Blacks, who often attended majority-Black schools.
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Description
Explore key concepts of assimilation theories with these flashcards. Learn about the origins of classic assimilation theory, definitions from Park and Burgess, and insights from Milton Gordon. Perfect for students seeking to understand cultural integration in a US context.