Culture and Globalisation

Question 1

Culture Definition

Answer 1

• A dynamic and indigenous phenomenon that shapes identity
• comprised of languages, history, religion, customs, cooking, values and traditions
• Transmitted through learning and communications across generations

Question 2

How does Globalisation impact Culture

Answer 2

• Leads to the erosion of distinct national cultures, replacing them with global symbols, ideals and lifestyles
• Perpetuated by the proliferation of global brands like Coca-Cola, McDonalds, and Hollywood Movies

Question 3

What are the three theories of cultural globalisation ?

Answer 3

• Coca-Colonisation - Some argue that globalisation leads to cultureal uniformity where western values dominate
• **Glocalisation ** - Global Influences blend with local traditions (Mcdonalds example)
• Cultural Pluralism - Increased interaction between cultures lead to greater cultural diversity and pluralism. This can be seen in multicultural societeies where different traditions co-exist. However, tensions arise when national identities feel threatened by foreign influences.

Question 4

What are the effects of Globalisation on culture

Answer 4

Negative
* Decline of local industries and traditional craftsmen
* Society is divided into further classes
* May marginalise groups of society
* May lead younger generation to leave country
* Western values dominate global cultures due to media
* Cultural tensions between western and islamic values
* Corporate brands shaping consumer habits and lifestyles
* Technology and Media enable instant cultural exchange
* May cause resistance such as France enforcing strict laws on language and traditions / Poland & Eastern Europe resistance to english
* Concerns over cultural homogenisation and loss of national identities

Positive
* Greater opportunities
* Greater interconnectedness and cultural exchange
* The challenge is to balance global influences whilst preserving cultural uniqueness

Question 5

Cultural Globalisation by era

• Pre-1500
• 1500-1850
• 1850-1945
• 1945-1990s
• Modern Day

Answer 5

• Pre-1500 - Migration, War, Trade, World Religions
• 1500-1850- European Empires, Global Trade Routes
• 1850-1945 - Nationalism, Mass Media, Scientific Advancements
• 1945-1990s - Corporations, Digital Media, Tourism
• Modern Day - Multinational Corporations, Internet, Social Media

Question 6

External Sources on Multiculturalism

Answer 6

**Canada ** - Shows some signs of intollerance despite being a global leader in multiculturalism. Has a selective immigration system

Mark Sammut - Every country has its own situation based on its culture and geography. Therefore its useless to look towards foreign countries. Malta has to decide whether it wants to be Maltese or cosmopolitan

**Oliver Friggieri ** - Bhal ma l-eruq ma jaghmlux bosk, m’hemmx bosk minghajr gheruq. Jghid li ahna maghmulin min kulturi taljani, francizi u inglizi