What is the term for the social process of absorbing one cultural group into harmony with another?

The term for the social process of absorbing one cultural group into harmony with another is assimilation. Assimilation occurs when individuals or groups from one culture adopt the beliefs, values, and practices of another culture, often leading to a merging of cultural identities. This process can happen voluntarily, as people choose to adopt traits from a dominant culture, or involuntarily, due to social or economic pressures.

In successful assimilation, the characteristics of the assimilating group may become less distinct as they adopt the customs and practices of the dominant culture. This often involves changing language, religion, and social habits, contributing to a more homogenized society. An example of this can be seen in immigrant communities that assimilate into the culture of the host country over generations, resulting in a blend of cultural traditions.

The other terms provided describe different concepts. Integration generally refers to the process of combining different groups while maintaining their distinct cultures, which is more about coexistence rather than absorption. Acclimatization typically refers to the adjustment to a new environment, such as climate or altitude, rather than cultural practices. Aggregation refers to the collection or grouping together of individuals or entities, which does not imply the cultural blending inherent to assimilation.