Cultural Superiority

Definition

Cultural superiority refers to the belief that one culture is superior to others, often leading to the justification of colonialism, imperialism, and cultural domination. This notion was prevalent in the early 20th century as nations sought to expand their influence globally, claiming that their cultural values and practices were more advanced or civilized compared to those of other societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cultural superiority was often used as a rationale for European colonial expansion, claiming that it was the duty of 'civilized' nations to bring their culture to 'lesser' societies.
2. This belief was intertwined with Social Darwinism, which applied the concept of 'survival of the fittest' to human societies, suggesting that stronger cultures would inevitably dominate weaker ones.
3. The idea of cultural superiority contributed to the spread of Western values and norms, often undermining local customs, languages, and traditions in colonized regions.
4. In the context of World War I and its aftermath, cultural superiority led to increased nationalism as countries sought to assert their own cultural identity against perceived threats from other nations.
5. The legacy of cultural superiority continues to influence international relations today, as debates about cultural exchange and appropriation remain relevant in a globalized world.

Review Questions

• How did the belief in cultural superiority influence European colonial practices in the early 20th century?
  • The belief in cultural superiority drove European nations to justify their colonial ambitions by claiming they were 'civilizing' other societies. This notion led to aggressive imperial policies aimed at subjugating and assimilating local populations under Western norms. Colonizers viewed themselves as bearers of progress and enlightenment, often disregarding or devaluing the rich traditions and customs of the cultures they encountered.
• Evaluate the impact of cultural superiority on the identities and cultures of colonized peoples during this period.
  • Cultural superiority had profound impacts on the identities of colonized peoples, often leading to the erosion of indigenous cultures. As Western ideals were imposed through education and governance, many local customs were marginalized or lost. This created a complex legacy where colonized populations sometimes adopted aspects of Western culture while struggling to preserve their own identities in the face of overwhelming external pressure.
• Assess the long-term effects of cultural superiority on contemporary global interactions and cultural dynamics.
  • The long-term effects of cultural superiority are evident in contemporary global interactions, where historical inequalities continue to shape power dynamics between nations. Post-colonial societies grapple with the remnants of imposed Western values while striving for authenticity in their cultural expressions. This ongoing tension influences debates around cultural appropriation, representation in media, and the ethics of global engagement, highlighting how past beliefs still resonate in today's world.

Related terms

Eurocentrism: A worldview centered on Western civilization, often marginalizing non-Western cultures and perspectives.

Colonialism:

The practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.

Cultural Imperialism:

The practice of promoting and imposing one culture over others, often through media, education, and economic influence.