Glossary

Adaptation

The adjusting of cultural characteristics to suit new circumstances to enhance cultural survival and wellbeing.

Adoption

The process through which individuals or groups embrace or incorporate new cultural norms, practices, or technologies into their own belief systems or way of life, often leading to cultural change and adaptation.

Assimilation

The process through which individuals or groups adopt the cultural norms and practices of a dominant or host society, often resulting in the loss of their own cultural identity.

Cultural change

The process through which a society's beliefs, customs, and practices evolve over time, often influenced by external factors such as globalisation, migration, and technological advancements.

Cultural identity

The sense of belonging, attachment, and identification with a particular cultural group, shaped by shared traditions, language, religion, and customs.

Cultural landscape

The visible and tangible imprint of human activity and culture on a particular place, including architecture, infrastructure, and land use patterns.

Diffusion 

The spread of cultural traits, ideas, and practices from one society to another, often facilitated by trade, migration, and communication technologies.

DINKs

Acronym describing the demographic group ‘double income, no kids’.

Gentrification

The process of urban renewal and the influx of middle-class or affluent residents into a deteriorating urban area, often resulting in the displacement of lower-income residents and changes to the neighbourhood's character and culture.

Multiculturalism

A social and political ideology that promotes the coexistence and recognition of diverse cultural groups within a society, often emphasising the value of cultural diversity and equality.

NIMBYs

Acronym for ‘Not in my backyard’, describing people opposed to development in their local area.

Place

A specific location with unique physical, cultural, and social characteristics that distinguish it from other places.

Random sampling

A sampling method that avoids bias in selecting specific people or places.

SINKs

Acronym describing the demographic group ‘single income, no kids’.

Systematic sampling

Surveying a small proportion of an area or population by collecting data at regular intervals.

Urban renewal

The revitalisation and redevelopment of urban areas, often involving the refurbishment of infrastructure, housing, and public spaces to improve the overall quality of life and attract investment.

YIMBYs

Acronym for ‘Yes in my backyard’, describing people in support of development in their local area.