A comparison between acculturation, integration and assimilation:
A. Similarities: These three processes have some common points as well as certain variations. Some of the common points are mentioned:
(i) The basic principles of culture contact are acculturation, assimilation and integration.
(ii) These form part and parcel of social processes. In other words, social processes constitute these three processes of social change in different cultures and social groups.
(iii) Borrowing and acquiring various cultural traits are also common features in all the three.
(iv) Transmission of cultural traits and their acceptance and adoption in different degree and extent is also a common characteristic of these three processes.
B. Differences: The differences among acculturation, integration and assimilation could be understood from the following description:
1. Assimilation refers to fusion of culture whereas, acculturation relates to transmission of cultural elements on a bigger scale over a wide area.
Integration on the other brings members together and maintains cohesiveness and solidarity in the group. It brings unity and stability among various members of the group.
2. Acculturation is a continuous process as against integration, which is referred to as a process of organisation. As distinguished from these two, assimilation is the end product of social contact interaction.
3. The process of assimilation takes a long period of time for fusion of different cultural values and ethos. As against this, an integration refers to cultural pluralism, voluntary and incomplete assimilation. This takes place in a short period of time. Acculturation at times is apparent, and causes quick social change.
4. Assimilation is also considered as a natural and unassisted process whereas acculturation and integration are social processes and assisted by culture contact and can be promoted directly.
