3.4 Types of Diffusion

On your website discuss examples of:

Relocation diffusion

Expansion diffusion such as

• Contagious

• Hierarchical

• Reverse-Hierarchical 

• Stimulus 

Include images

Relocation Diffusion: The spread of an idea, innovation, or cultural practice through the physical movement of individuals . In Switzerland, this can be seen when cultural practices, such as Italian cuisine, are introduced by Italian migrants who bring their culinary traditions with them as they relocate to Switzerland.

Contagious Diffusion:  rapid and widespread spread of an idea or innovation from person to person. In Switzerland, the rapid adoption of contactless payment methods, like smartphones, quickly spreading among the population, is an example of contagious diffusion.

Hierarchical diffusion: the spread of ideas or innovations from authority figures or higher social classes to lower ones In Switzerland, the introduction of luxury fashion trends from high-end cities like Zurich and Geneva to the rest of the country demonstrates hierarchical diffusion.

Reverse-hierarchical diffusion occurs when an idea or innovation starts among lower social classes or less influential groups and moves upwards. In Switzerland, the organic food movement initially gained traction in rural areas and among environmentally concerned individuals, and later being embraced by urban consumers, is an example of reverse-hierarchical diffusion.

Stimulus diffusion - is when a cultural practice or innovation is adopted but gets modifications to fit the local context. The development of the Swiss watch industry is a stimulus diffusion example in Switzerland, where Swiss watchmakers added their craftsmanship and precision to a concept inspired by other cultures, creating a unique and world-renowned product.