Social Remittances: Cultural Diffusion

This lecture explores the concept of social remittances, defined as the transfer of ideas, behaviors, and social capital from receiving to sending-country communities. Through a case study on winter fashions remitted by migrants from Boston to the Dominican Republic, the instructor discusses the formation of a hybrid migrant culture. The lecture also delves into the shift from assimilation to integration in migrant communities, highlighting the dynamic interaction between migrants and host societies. Furthermore, the impact of global internet and mobile access on migration is examined, emphasizing the changing social and cultural dimensions. The session concludes with a discussion on transnational communities and the ways in which communication technology has influenced migrant connections with their families.