Diffusion is ...

Diffusion is (literally) scattering, spreading, spreading. Physically, this concept characterizes the process of transfer of energy or matter from a highly concentrated region to a region with a lower concentration. The most common phenomenon with which diffusion is associated is the mixing of gas molecules (for example, when the fragrance of spirits spreads in the air) or liquids. The same process can be observed in solids. For example, if the end of the rod is electrically charged or heated, then the heat (or charge) will gradually spread from the hot section to the cold one. At the same time if you take a metal object, the heat will spread quickly enough, and the electric current - instantly. If the rod is made of synthetic material, then the thermal spread will proceed slowly, while the electric spread will be slower. Diffusion of solids occurs at an even slower rate.

It should be noted that this term (like many others) is used today not only in physics.

There is, for example, such a thing as diffusion of innovation. This is such a process, with the help of which in the course of time the innovation is transferred to business entities via communication channels. In this case, diffusion is an information distribution, the speed and shape of which depend on the communication channels used . Of great importance are the features of the perception of information by the subjects that conduct economic activity, as well as their ability to use the information obtained in practice. With the diffusion of innovation, already mastered once and applied in another locality, in new places and conditions the number of consumers and producers increases. The continuity of the process shapes the boundaries and forms of the spread of innovations in a market economy.

Experts note that in the conditions of conducting economic activities, diffusion has a cyclical character. At the same time, the implementation of the entire implementation process, the spread of innovations is divided into certain stages: fundamental and applied research, development and design, construction, development, as well as industrial production, marketing and sales.

Cultural diffusion is a concept that is used in the social sphere. Characterizes this definition of the process of mutual penetration of certain traits from one social group to another when they come into contact. In this case, diffusion may not leave any imprint on any of the interacting cultures. It may, however, happen that penetration provokes strong and equal (or one-sided) influence. The channels through which diffusion passes are mainly tourism, population migration, war, trade, scientific conferences, fairs and exhibitions, exchange of specialists and students.

The spread of innovations in the social sphere can be carried out in two directions: horizontally or vertically.

Horizontal penetration (intergroup diffusion) is noted between individuals, groups equal in status.

Vertical spread occurs between subjects with unequal status. This process is called stratification diffusion.

Traditional society is characterized by a pronounced symbolic polarization of the population. According to a number of culturologists, the middle class is considered an example of a lifestyle and style today (both for the higher and lower classes).

Cultural diffusion brings to society both positive and negative traits. Thus, the spread of high conceptions of life in the middle and (especially) lower strata means, on the one hand, the education and democratization of the people. On the other hand, high culture in this case can be perceived primitively and has gone.