What is "cultural imperialism"? Give examples. Discuss some of the concerns about cultural imperialism, as well as the alternative view. How does this illustrate the both/and perspective?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Cultural imperialism is cultural domination of one country by another, including media such as mart, music, television, and film. The majority of movies shown in European theaters and television are American, and most music in the global marketplace is sung in English, usually by Americans. The cultural imperialism thesis holds that this kind of Western media dominance, driven by desire for profits, will shape world cultures and ensure their Westernization. Playing everywhere and blocking out opportunities for local productions, this media dominance will substitute American values like individualism and consumerism for the local values of countries where media products are sold. Eventually, cultural distinctiveness will be eroded, threatening national and cultural identity. Other nations will be so thoroughly indoctrinated with U.S. cultural, political, and economic images and ideals that they will forget who they are. However, media are still locally produced, audiences interpret foreign media differently, and countries have created localized versions of western media (for example the Arabic version of The Simpsons). Both Western media AND local media are apparent.