Stimulus diffusion is a type of cultural diffusion where an idea or innovation spreads from one culture to another, but the original idea is modified or adapted to fit the new culture. A classic example of stimulus diffusion is the spread of McDonald’s restaurants around the world.
While the core concept of fast food remains the same, McDonald’s adapts its menu to suit local tastes and preferences. For instance, in India, where a significant portion of the population is vegetarian, McDonald’s offers a range of vegetarian options like the McAloo Tikki burger, which is made with a spiced potato patty. In Japan, you can find items like the Teriyaki Burger, which incorporates local flavors. This adaptation ensures that the brand remains relevant and appealing to different cultures, demonstrating the concept of stimulus diffusion.