#56 - Cultural Appropriation
Culural Appriation
The conservative and liberal views on cultural appropriation often manifest in opposing attitudes toward freedom of expression and respect for cultural identities, with each stance bringing practical examples into focus.
Conservative Perspective
Conservatives view cultural exchange as a valuable expression of freedom and creativity, arguing that society benefits when people borrow and incorporate cultural elements. For instance, they see people celebrating Cinco de Mayo or wearing clothing with Native American-inspired designs as ways to appreciate cultural diversity. From this perspective, labeling these acts as appropriation might stifle cultural appreciation and foster divisions.
Example: A conservative might defend a non-Japanese person wearing a kimono as an expression of admiration rather than disrespect, supporting the idea that openness to cultural exchange promotes understanding.
Liberal Perspective
Liberals are more cautious about cultural borrowing, particularly when it involves dominant groups adopting elements from marginalized cultures without understanding or respecting their historical significance. They argue that this can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and diminish the lived experiences of marginalized communities. Liberals emphasize the importance of consent, understanding, and respect in cultural exchange.
Example: A liberal might criticize non-Indigenous people wearing Native American headdresses at music festivals, as these items hold spiritual significance and are traditionally earned. Similarly, they might call for awareness around practices like yoga, which they argue should respect its roots in Hinduism and Indian culture rather than be commercialized.
Key Issues
Cultural Exchange vs. Appropriation: Conservatives promote cross-cultural sharing, while liberals emphasize boundaries and respect for cultural origins.
Freedom of Expression vs. Sensitivity: Conservatives often prioritize individual freedom, while liberals stress cultural sensitivity, especially when borrowing from marginalized groups.
Power and History: Liberals highlight that appropriation often reinforces power imbalances, while conservatives may focus more on cultural unity and personal liberty.
Together, these examples reflect the tension between promoting freedom in cultural expression and ensuring respect for cultural histories and identities
