H eterogeneity

Abstract

Heterogeneity is a generic term derived from the ancient Greek signifying “other” or “different,” and meaning “race” or “type, class.” In the globalization debate the term “heterogeneity” is generally used to describe a quality of cultural diversity, mostly as antidote of the cultural convergence‐thesis, which proposes an increasing homogenization of culture through globalization. Conceptualizations of heterogeneity are largely related to the interpretation of what culture and cultural identity are comprised of, as well as what globalization entails.