Cultural Appropriation
Definition and Overview
Cultural appropriation is a concept in sociology dealing with the adoption of elements of one culture by members of another culture. This can be controversial when members of a dominant culture appropriate from disadvantaged minority cultures. Cultural appropriation is often considered harmful, and to be a violation of the collective intellectual property rights of the originating, minority cultures, notably indigenous cultures and those living under colonial rule.
Historical Context
The concept of cultural appropriation emerged in the academic world in the late 20th century, within the fields of cultural studies and critical race theory, among others. It was brought to the forefront of public attention in the 21st century by social activists and cultural commentators.
Forms of Cultural Appropriation
Cultural appropriation can take many forms. These include, but are not limited to, the adoption of traditional knowledge, religious symbols, artifacts, aesthetics, styles of dress, and personal adornments. It can also involve the unauthorized use of cultural and religious ceremonies, sports, storytelling, culinary traditions, music, dance, and visual and performing arts.
Artistic Appropriation
Artistic appropriation, such as the adoption of traditional art forms, music, dance, and visual and performing arts, is a common form of cultural appropriation. This can include the use of traditional cultural motifs, styles, and techniques in a way that is not respectful of their cultural origins and meanings.
Fashion Appropriation
Fashion appropriation involves the adoption of elements of a culture's style of dress, personal adornment, or aesthetics by people who are not members of that culture. This can include the use of traditional clothing, hairstyles, body modifications, and jewelry in a way that is not respectful of their cultural origins and meanings.
Culinary Appropriation
Cultural appropriation can also occur in the culinary world, when food and drink associated with a particular culture are prepared and consumed outside of their original cultural context, often without proper acknowledgment of their origins.
Criticisms and Controversies
Cultural appropriation is a controversial issue, with many differing viewpoints. Critics argue that it is a form of cultural theft, and a continuation of historical patterns of exploitation and oppression. They contend that it is a violation of the collective intellectual property rights of the originating cultures, and can result in the commodification and homogenization of those cultures.
Cultural Exploitation
Critics argue that cultural appropriation is a form of cultural exploitation, in which the dominant culture takes from a culture of people who have been systematically oppressed by that dominant group.
Commodification
Commodification is a process by which cultural elements can be extracted, isolated, and sold as commodities, outside of their original cultural context. Critics argue that this process can lead to the homogenization and loss of meaning of these cultural elements.
Loss of Cultural Meaning
When cultural elements are appropriated and used outside of their original cultural context, they can lose their original meanings and significance. This can lead to a loss of cultural heritage and identity for the originating cultures.
Counterarguments and Defenses
While cultural appropriation is often criticized, there are also many who defend certain instances of cultural borrowing as being a natural part of cultural exchange and evolution. They argue that cultures have always borrowed from each other, and that this can lead to innovation and cultural diversity.
Cultural Exchange
Defenders of cultural appropriation often argue that it is a form of cultural exchange, in which cultures learn from and influence each other. They contend that this exchange is a natural and inevitable part of human interaction and cultural evolution.
Cultural Diversity
Some argue that cultural appropriation can contribute to cultural diversity, by introducing elements of different cultures into new contexts. They contend that this can lead to the creation of new and innovative cultural forms.
Conclusion
Cultural appropriation is a complex and controversial issue, with many differing viewpoints. It involves a range of cultural practices and phenomena, and raises important questions about cultural respect, cultural exchange, and the rights of minority cultures. As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, the issue of cultural appropriation is likely to remain a significant topic of discussion and debate.