Prompt 4
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University of Washington *
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200
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Communications
Date
Feb 20, 2024
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Uploaded by ProfMetalScorpion72
Prompt 4:
Define and explain the cultural imperialism argument as discussed in the lecture. Next
summarize a recent (since 2018) example of co-produced Western cultural imperialism. Finally,
point out a possible cultural implication of Western media presence.
○
The answer provides a clear and accurate understanding of the topic drawing
from the lecture and describes it well. The answer summarizes an appropriate
example and its possible implication.
According to Rahman (2023c), “the cultural imperialism argument suggests that a large
volume of media products flow from the West, especially the US, and thus shape other cultures
in a form of domination.” Cultural imperialism deals with the things related to cultures, such as
identity, tradition, values, and norms. Also, the ideas that inform our culture such as our history
and our heritage (Rahman, 2023c). The cultural imperialism argument proposes that dominant
cultures use their economic and political power to promote their cultural products, such as
movies, music, fashion, and language. This also can establish a global cultural hierarchy where
their culture is seen as superior and others as inferior. The argument often focuses on the role
of media and communication technologies, such as television, film, and the internet, in
spreading dominant cultural products and practices worldwide.
Rahman (2023c) explained that cultural imperialism operates at the regional and local
levels of co-optation and co-production. Co-production is defined as “the mutual cooperation
between international media companies in terms of capital investment and the sharing of
resources” (Rahman, 2023c). Co-production shows how cultural imperialism has transformed
regionally. Through this, transnational media industries must interdepend in order to compete in
local markets. American-owned and produced cultural industries are still at the top, but local
integration has become complex. Co-production can be considered the new phase of cultural
imperialism (Rahman, 2023c).
Tencent is a Chinese company that has made significant investments in major American
film companies. Tencent investments in Universal, Warner Brothers, Sony, and Paramount in
terms of film production and distribution is a major example of cultural imperialism in
co-produced form (Rahman, 2023c). These American companies need Tencent for access to
local Chinese theaters, which gives them money, resources, capital investments, and globalizes
their product. This partnership highlights the concept of co-produced Western cultural
imperialism, where Western cultural products are promoted globally, possibly at the expense of
local cultures. In this case, Tencent's investments in Western film production and distribution
can be seen as an attempt to exert Western cultural dominance over China by co-producing
cultural products that can reach a global audience while marginalizing local Chinese
productions. This partnership has allowed American companies to access Chinese theaters and
expand their global reach and gain significant amounts of profit, while Tencent benefits from the
capital investment and resources provided by these partnerships. This form of co-produced
Western cultural imperialism demonstrates how global power dynamics in the film industry can
perpetuate the dominance of Western cultural products and ideas, even as they seek to expand
into new markets. It involves both Western and Chinese companies working together, but the
end result is the spread of Western cultural products and values throughout the world. This can
have both positive and negative effects, as it can expose audiences to new ideas and
perspectives, but it can also homogenize global culture and limit local voices and creativity.
One possible cultural implication of Western media presence is the potential for cultural
domination and the erosion of cultural identities. This implies the potential for homogenization or
standardization of cultural values, beliefs, and practices. Western media can introduce foreign
values, norms, and ideas that may conflict with local beliefs and traditions, leading to this
cultural homogenization. Additionally, Western media may prioritize stories and perspectives
that align with Western ideologies and interests, which can marginalize local voices and
perspectives. This can have negative impacts on cultural diversity, creativity, and expression,
and may ultimately lead to a loss of cultural heritage and identity. This occurs when Western
media products, such as movies, TV shows, and music, dominate global markets and are
consumed by audiences around the world. As a result, people may begin to adopt Western
cultural values and beliefs, while their own unique cultural identities are diminished or lost. This
can be seen in the way that Western cultural norms and values, such as individualism,
consumerism, and materialism, have been exported and embraced globally through media
channels. In some cases, this can lead to cultural clashes or tensions between those who value
their traditional cultural practices and those who adopt Western values. The dominance of
Western media can also lead to a loss of diversity and creativity in the global cultural and media
landscape. This can limit the representation of other cultures, as well as the range of
perspectives and ideas that are presented in the media. As a result, people may have a narrow
understanding of the world and its cultures, and may not be exposed to a variety of viewpoints
and experiences. Local artists, musicians, and filmmakers may find it harder to get their works
noticed and may have to conform to Western standards of creativity and entertainment to
achieve success. This can stifle the development of unique cultural expressions and contribute
to the homogenization of global culture.
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