3.6 - A Global Culture And Westernisation Flashcards
What is culture?
A society’s ‘structure of feeling’ – a shared meaning by a group of people that has an influence on the way they live their lives and interpret the world around them
The concept emphasizes the emotional and interpretative aspects of cultural experience.
Define global culture.
A group of shared cultural traits held in common by the global society
This encompasses common practices, beliefs, and values that transcend national boundaries.
What is cultural diffusion?
The impact of globalisation on cultural exchange – cultures are interdependent and influence each other through the increased flows of people, commodities, information, capital etc
This process often leads to the blending or alteration of cultural practices.
What does Americanisation refer to?
The cultural influence of the USA on other places
This influence can manifest in various forms, such as media, consumer products, and lifestyle.
What is westernisation?
The joint cultural influence of the USA and Europe on other places
This often involves the adoption of Western values, practices, and products.
Define cultural imperialism.
The practice of promoting the culture/language of one nation in another, usually from a more powerful to a less powerful nation
This can lead to the erosion of local cultures.
What is cultural erosion?
The loss of language, tradition and social relations because people are no longer restricted to developing an identity based upon the place they live
This phenomenon can lead to homogenization of cultures.
What is Globish?
A form of basic English consisting of about 1500 words
It is often used as a global lingua franca.
What are some impacts of cultural diffusion?
Impacts include:
* The use of ‘Globish’ as a global business language
* Changes in Asian diets towards more meat and fast food
* Changing cultural attitudes towards disability, highlighted by the Paralympic Games
These impacts showcase the varied effects of cultural exchange.
What role do TNCs play in cultural diffusion?
TNCs spread their brands and products globally through:
* Media
* Fast food
* E-commerce
* Uniform products (e.g., Nike, Apple)
* Adaptation to local cultures (e.g., McDonald’s)
TNCs can significantly shape consumer culture worldwide.
How does global media contribute to cultural diffusion?
Global media organizations like Disney, CNN, and the BBC spread a western view of world events and cultural practices
This includes the portrayal of western holidays and cultural norms in international media.
How does tourism and migration contribute to cultural diffusion?
Tourism spreads culture and introduces tourists to new cultures, while migrants share ideas permanently with host countries
This has historically led to the exchange of language and customs.
What are some negative impacts of westernisation?
Negative impacts include:
* Unhealthy western diet leading to obesity and diabetes
* Loss of traditional healthy diets in Asia
* Environmental degradation due to expanded farming
* Wastefulness of consumerist society
These issues highlight the challenges associated with adopting Western lifestyles.
How has cultural diffusion positively impacted disadvantaged groups?
Cultural diffusion has improved opportunities for:
* Women
* The disabled
* LGBT groups
Globalisation has enabled greater awareness and support for anti-discrimination and equality efforts.
What is the case study of cultural diffusion in Papua New Guinea’s Korowai tribe?
The Korowai tribe has experienced changes such as:
* Movement from longhouses to brick housing
* Introduction of sugary drinks and global music
* Adoption of Western clothing
* Impact of Christianity on traditional practices
These changes illustrate the effects of cultural diffusion on indigenous communities.
Fill in the blank: The spread of the western diet has led to increased _______ in many emerging economies.
obesity
This change is often linked to the adoption of fast food and processed foods.
True or False: Cultural imperialism only occurs when a less powerful nation promotes its culture in a more powerful nation.
False
Cultural imperialism typically involves a more powerful nation imposing its culture on a less powerful one.
