Reader Response Final

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 am in agreement with the author that globalization of culture is not new and that transnational media has played an important role in enhancing cultural hybridity in today's world. In addition, I also feel that there has been a shift from cultural imperialism to cultural globalization. I will be explaining my views in the subsequent paragraphs.

In his article, Kraidy 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.

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Reference

Kraidy, M. M. (2002). Globalization of Culture Through the Media. Retrieved from http://repository.upenn.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1333&context=asc_papers