Which term refers to the blending of multiple cultures through mutual exchange?

The term that best describes the blending of multiple cultures through mutual exchange is transculturation. This concept emphasizes the dynamic process in which cultures influence each other, resulting in new cultural practices, beliefs, and social norms. It acknowledges that cultural exchange is not a one-way street; instead, it highlights the interactions and negotiations that occur when different cultural groups come into contact.

Transculturation involves elements such as hybridization, where features from different cultures combine to create something unique. This process can lead to the emergence of new cultural identities and practices that reflect a mélange of influences, as individuals and communities adapt and incorporate aspects from multiple cultures into their daily lives.

In contrast, other terms like acculturation and assimilation have distinct meanings. Acculturation refers more to the process by which individuals or groups adopt certain cultural traits of another culture while maintaining their original cultural identity. Assimilation describes a situation where one culture becomes absorbed into another, often resulting in the loss of the original cultural identity. Cultural universalism is a broader term that refers to concepts or practices that are common across various cultures but does not specifically address the mutual exchange and blending that occurs in transculturation.