Cultural diffusion

Cultural diffusion is when there is a voluntary or consented change in culture and this can be seen everywhere around the world. Globalization has helped to accelerate the spread of culture around the world because of international trade and through transnational corporations or TNCs. Transnational corporations have been a major part in cultural diffusion where their goods and services are spread not only in their country of origin but to many parts around the world as well.

A very good example of cultural diffusion can be seen here in the Philippines which is highly influenced by Western ideas and culture, mainly from the United States. The majority of Filipinos openly embrace the influence of American culture in the country. There are a vast number of transnational corporations in the country such as McDonalds, Starbucks, Nike, Adidas, and many more. These TNCs have brought over not only their goods to sell to the people but have also influenced their way of life. Starbucks is a company that has spread the custom of afternoon coffee breaks in work. A lot of office workers would stop by Starbucks in order to have a cup of coffee or in break times. This can be seen in many business districts in Metro Manila. Consumerism is also increasing as more Filipinos are becoming affluent. Companies like Nike and Adidas are very famous because of the products that they sell such as basketball shoes of famous basketball players in the NBA like Kobe Bryant or LeBron James. Conveniently, with the country's love for basketball, people are attracted into buying the products form these companies. They can unintentionally help to spread consumerism with the already existing cultural influences that the country has.