Final answer:
The amalgamation theory has led to cultural assimilation, where immigrant ethnic heritages merge into the mainstream culture, often resulting in the loss of distinct cultural identities among minority groups.
Step-by-step explanation:
The amalgamation theory posits that various immigrant ethnic heritages blend into a single, composite mainstream culture. This process is akin to what some refer to as the cultural 'melting pot.' In the United States, this has historically been observed as immigrants adapt to the beliefs and practices of the predominant culture through acculturation and assimilation. Sociologists use benchmarks like socioeconomic status, spatial concentration, language assimilation, and intermarriage to measure how much immigrants have assimilated.
When considering the impacts of the amalgamation theory, it has led to cultural assimilation, which often results in minority groups losing their distinct cultural identities as they conform to the dominant culture. This is contrasted with multiculturalism and pluralism, where diversity is preserved, and each culture maintains its unique characteristics within a larger society. Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is: The amalgamation theory, whereby many immigrant ethnic heritages merge into a composite mainstream culture, has c) Led to cultural assimilation