Integrating Structuralism and Diffusionism to Explain the New Italian Emigration

The present study presents a novel approach to understanding recent Italian emigration by integrating diffusionist and structuralist theories. Departing from traditional adaptive explanations of fertility transitions, the work delves into the innovative fusion of diffusionism and structuralism, shedding light on the dynamics of contemporary migratory movements. Drawing from the foundation laid by diffusionism in the realm of fertility studies, we extend its application to analyse the complexities of Italian emigration. Proposing an extended version of the Bass model, traditionally employed in studying the diffusion of new products and behaviours, we uncover the underlying dynamics driving the recent wave of Italian emigration. Our findings offer a fresh perspective on international migration processes, emphasizing the synergy between diffusionist and structuralist interpretations, marking a significant advancement in the study of migratory phenomena.