ABSTRACT
The introduction of outside ideologies and foreign ways of life into societies that have been relatively closed or isolated can lead to “changes in attitudes, values, or behavior which can result from merely observing tourists” (de Kadt 1979, 65). This demonstration effect is unavoidable because tourists generally possess greater financial and leisure-time affluence than many local residents, and their vacation experiences are based frequently upon conspicuous consumption. The demonstration effect can be a benefit if it encourages local people to adopt and work for the things they lack, because in the process this helps their development. However, in many Third World destinations it has created resentment, as local residents find themselves unable to emulate the lifestyles and products they are witnessing.
