Double standards

Definition

Double standards refer to the application of different sets of principles for similar situations, often leading to unfair treatment based on factors such as race, gender, or social class. In the context of postcolonial readings of texts, double standards often reveal the inequities and biases that exist in how cultures and narratives are evaluated, critiqued, or accepted, highlighting the disparities in power dynamics between colonizers and the colonized.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Double standards can manifest in literature by favoring Western narratives while marginalizing non-Western perspectives, revealing biases in critical reception.
2. In postcolonial contexts, double standards highlight how colonial powers judged the behaviors and practices of colonized peoples differently than they would their own.
3. Literary texts often reflect double standards through characterizations that reinforce stereotypes or through the omission of voices from marginalized groups.
4. Double standards can also be seen in the way historical events are portrayed differently in Western versus non-Western literature, affecting readers' perceptions of these events.
5. Challenging double standards is crucial in postcolonial studies as it encourages a more equitable understanding of cultural production and representation.

Review Questions

• How do double standards manifest in the evaluation of literary texts from postcolonial perspectives?
  • Double standards in literary evaluations often show up as a bias towards Western texts while dismissing or undervaluing works from postcolonial authors. For instance, Western literature may be praised for its complexity and depth, while similar qualities in non-Western texts might be overlooked or criticized. This selective appraisal reveals underlying power dynamics that favor dominant cultures over marginalized ones, making it essential to address these disparities in literary criticism.
• Discuss the role of double standards in shaping cultural narratives during colonialism and how they continue to influence contemporary discussions.
  • During colonialism, double standards were evident in how colonizers rationalized their dominance by depicting colonized cultures as inferior or primitive. This justification served to legitimize exploitation and oppression. Today, these historical biases persist in contemporary discussions about cultural appropriation and representation, where similar actions may be viewed differently based on the cultural context. Recognizing these double standards allows for a more nuanced understanding of ongoing cultural dynamics and reinforces the importance of equitable dialogue.
• Evaluate the impact of challenging double standards within postcolonial studies on our understanding of global literature.
  • Challenging double standards within postcolonial studies reshapes our understanding of global literature by promoting inclusivity and diversity in literary canon formation. By critically examining how texts are valued differently based on their origins or authorship, scholars can uncover rich narratives that have been historically marginalized. This reevaluation not only enhances appreciation for non-Western literatures but also fosters a more comprehensive dialogue about culture and identity, ultimately enriching our grasp of the complexities inherent in global literary landscapes.

Related terms

Colonialism:

A practice where a country exerts control over a foreign territory, often exploiting its resources and people for economic and political gain.

Cultural Imperialism: The imposition of one culture's values and practices onto another culture, often through media and education, leading to the marginalization of local cultures.

Postcolonialism:

An academic field that studies the effects of colonialism on cultures and societies, particularly in terms of identity, power relations, and cultural representation.