Kraidy (2002) in his article "Globalisation
of Culture Through the Media" analyses the debate of media impact on
globalisation. He highlights the opposing views towards cultural imperialism
and the argument of a shift of cultural imperialism to globalization of
cultures. He then comes to a conclusion that cultural hybridity is not a new
phenomenon but one that is enhanced by transnational media.
I feel that this is an excellent article as the writer analyses various
viewpoints of the issue and gives his opinion regarding cultural globalization.
In his article, he addresses the argument regarding the shift of
cultural imperialism to globalization of cultures. Personally, I believe that cultural
globalization is much more relevant in today’s world. Countries have become more
equal in standing, making cultural imperialism less likely. In the past,
western nations have had a strong influence on eastern nations. However, it is
no longer a one-way route today. Eastern countries are also exerting an equally strong
influence on their western counterparts. For instance, Korean culture is also
being reached out to the west. To me, the direction today is less clear than in
the past. Hence, I feel that globalization of culture is a better term compared
to cultural imperialism.
In the article, Kraidy also discusses cultural hybridity. I agree with
the writer’s view that cultural hybridity is not a new phenomenon; it is “already in existence”. This is because
cultures are never stagnant and have been evolving and changing to the
environment. Even before the birth of media, there has been contact of cultures
through various platforms. Hence, hybridity should not be a new ‘event’. To me,
transnational media is only a factor that facilitates the evolution of culture.
In other words, it did not cause culture hybridity, it merely speeds up the
evolution.
In conclusion, this article brings to our attention the reality of cultural globalization in today’s world. It highlights to us the impact media has on cultures and the debate concerning cultural imperialism. Last but not least, we are brought to the attention that there is a shift of cultural imperialism to globalization of culture.
(351 words)
Hi Alvin,
ReplyDeleteAfter the discussion, we think you should provide a more specific opinion, like what are the specific viewpoints of the author and what is his opinion. instead of "I feel that this is an excellent article as the writer analyses various viewpoints of the issue and gives his opinion regarding cultural globalization."
Other than this, I think everything should be okay.