is the changing American belief from tanned skin being healthy to tanned skin being related to skin cancer is an example of culture being:
cumulative.
diffusive.
adaptive.
I would say adaptive. People have rejected tans because of new information about the health hazards.
The changing American belief from tanned skin being healthy to tanned skin being related to skin cancer is an example of culture being adaptive.
To understand why, let's break down the three options:
1. Cumulative: Cumulative culture refers to the gradual accumulation of knowledge and beliefs over generations. It suggests that cultural changes build upon previous knowledge and practices. While there might be some cumulative elements involved in the changing American belief, it doesn't fully capture the essence of the transformation from tanned skin being seen as healthy to being associated with skin cancer.
2. Diffusive: Diffusive culture refers to the spread of ideas, beliefs, and practices from one culture to another. In this case, the change in American belief about tanned skin could have been influenced by the diffusion of information about the harmful effects of sun exposure. However, the question focuses more on the change within American culture itself, so diffusive culture isn't the most accurate choice here.
3. Adaptive: Adaptive culture refers to cultural changes that occur in response to environmental or societal pressures. In the given scenario, the shift in American belief about tanned skin can be attributed to evolving scientific knowledge and increased awareness about the harmful effects of sun exposure. As a result, people have adapted their cultural beliefs to align with these new understandings. Therefore, adaptive culture is the most fitting descriptor for this particular example.
In summary, the changing American belief about tanned skin being healthy to being related to skin cancer is an example of culture being adaptive, as it reflects a cultural shift in response to new knowledge and awareness.