Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Exam

What does syncretism involve?

1. Repeating cultural practices

2. Adopting elements from a dominant culture

3. Creating entirely new cultural identities

4. Isolating oneself from other cultures

The correct answer is: Adopting elements from a dominant culture

Syncretism involves adopting elements from a dominant culture and incorporating them into one's own cultural practices, beliefs, and traditions. This process often occurs in multicultural societies where different belief systems and practices meet, leading to a blending or fusion of cultural traits. Through syncretism, individuals or groups can maintain aspects of their original culture while also embracing elements from other cultures, particularly when one culture is more influential or dominant. This blending can result in unique cultural expressions that reflect the influences of multiple traditions. The other options present different concepts that do not align with the essence of syncretism. Repeating cultural practices pertains more to tradition and continuity within a single culture without external influence. Creating entirely new cultural identities suggests a complete transformation and departure from existing cultural roots, which is distinctly separate from the idea of incorporating elements from another culture. Isolating oneself from other cultures indicates a separation that would prevent the mutual exchange and blending of cultural practices that defines syncretism.