Cultural Imperialism

Definition

Cultural imperialism refers to the imposition of one culture over another, often resulting in the dominance of the importing culture and the marginalization or erasure of local cultures. This concept highlights the power dynamics involved in cultural exchanges, where certain narratives and values can overshadow and replace indigenous traditions and identities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cultural imperialism is often seen in literature as Western narratives and perspectives dominate global media, sidelining African voices and stories.
2. Achebe, Soyinka, and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o use their works to challenge cultural imperialism by highlighting indigenous cultures and critiquing colonial influences.
3. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o notably shifted from writing in English to his native Gikuyu as a form of resistance against cultural imperialism.
4. Cultural imperialism can lead to a loss of local languages and traditions, as dominant cultures promote their own values as superior.
5. The impact of cultural imperialism is evident in how African literature engages with themes of identity, resistance, and reclamation of cultural heritage.

Review Questions

• How do Achebe, Soyinka, and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o respond to cultural imperialism in their literary works?
  • Achebe, Soyinka, and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o respond to cultural imperialism by emphasizing the importance of African narratives and identities in their works. Achebe's 'Things Fall Apart' critiques colonial portrayals of African societies, while Soyinka's plays often highlight the clash between traditional values and colonial influences. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o actively resists cultural imperialism by writing in his native Gikuyu language, promoting the richness of African culture against Western dominance.
• Discuss the implications of Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o's shift from English to Gikuyu in relation to cultural imperialism.
  • Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o's decision to write in Gikuyu represents a significant act of defiance against cultural imperialism. By choosing his native language, he emphasizes the value of indigenous cultures and challenges the assumption that English is the superior medium for literary expression. This shift not only seeks to reclaim cultural identity but also inspires others to recognize the importance of their own languages in preserving heritage and resisting the homogenizing forces of globalization.
• Analyze how the concept of cultural imperialism impacts contemporary African literature and its role in global discourse.
  • Cultural imperialism continues to shape contemporary African literature by influencing themes, narrative styles, and publication opportunities. Writers today navigate a complex landscape where they must assert their voices within a global literary market that often prioritizes Western perspectives. This dynamic encourages a reclamation of identity through storytelling that reflects local realities. Furthermore, it prompts writers to challenge stereotypes and advocate for diverse representations, ultimately enriching global discourse by offering nuanced insights into African experiences.

Related terms

Colonialism: A practice where a country extends its control over foreign territories, often leading to the exploitation and cultural assimilation of local populations.

Globalization: The process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale, often leading to cultural homogenization.

Postcolonialism: An intellectual discourse that analyzes the cultural, political, and economic legacies of colonialism and seeks to address the ongoing effects of colonial domination.