Abstract.We apply smoothing procedures to response functions for isoscalar vibrations. For collective motion, we find a transition from a structured strength distribution to one corresponding to one incoherent, strongly overdamped mode. It is argued that the latter may be interpreted as "macroscopic" motion exhibiting, to some extent, features of the hydrodynamical model. We discuss the physical origin of this behaviour, in particular its relation to the disappearance of shell structure.