Stimulus diffusion primarily involves the spread of what?

The concept of stimulus diffusion refers to the process by which an underlying idea or innovation spreads from one culture to another, with modifications that adapt the original concept to fit the local culture or context. This type of diffusion emphasizes the sharing of ideas rather than the direct replication of those ideas or practices.

In this way, even if the specific implementation of an idea differs from its origin, the core concept inspires new expressions or variations within different cultural settings. This distinguishes stimulus diffusion from forms of diffusion that involve the direct borrowing of items or practices without significant alteration.

By focusing on ideas, stimulus diffusion captures the transformative nature of cultural exchange and the ways in which societies creatively reinterpret and integrate external influences into their own cultural landscapes. This aspect of cultural adaptation is key in understanding how innovations can be adapted and evolve when they encounter new environments.