Globalisation & Identity

Key words

• First Generation Immigrants: Only a small minority are first-generation; most people's identities are rooted in local locales.

• Nation States: Most are multi-ethnic due to globalisation, which affects identity.

Imagined Communities (Anderson, 2013)

• Definition: National/ethnic communities perceived as imagined, where members may never meet.

• Components: Shared narratives of origins, history, symbolism.

• Globalisation's Threat: Leads to feelings of identity loss, sparking nationalism (e.g. Trump’s slogan).

Ethnic Revitalisation

• Definition: Ethnic identities based on social constructions (language, religion, customs).

• Reaction to Globalisation: Instead of fading, ethnic differences become more pronounced; identities defended due to perceived threats (e.g. Brexit).

Cultural Defence

• Concept: Culture acts as a shield for group identity in response to threat.

• Example: Minority groups, like younger Muslims, may emphasize their cultural practices when facing hostility.

Hybrid Identities

• Definition: Combination of elements from two cultures.

• Example: South Asian youth in the UK blending Asian and British cultures into 'Brasian'.

Cultural Divergence vs. Cultural Convergence/Homogenisation

• Historical Context: Cultures have historically diverged with significant differences in language, religion, etc.

• Globalisation's Role: Suggests a potential shift towards cultural convergence.

• Chanda (2002): Globalisation reunites mankind, promoting cultural similarities.

Cultural Convergence

• Perspectives:

  • Hyper-Globalists: View convergence positively, creating a global culture.

  • Sceptics: Warn against the dominance of Western culture and values.

  • Transformationalists: Argue for two-way flows creating hybrid cultures.

Western Ideology and Westernisation

• Definition: Spread of Western ideals (individualism, democracy, etc.) globally; includes influences from colonisation and trade.

• Example: Japan integrates Western and traditional values; Afghanistan rejects Westernisation (e.g. Taliban).

Related Terms

• Coca-colonisation: Influence of TNCs like Coca-Cola causing a global consumer culture and cultural dominance; also termed Americanisation.

McDonaldization

• Concept: Standardization and homogenization of cultural products guided by corporate efficiency and predictability.

• Implications: Workers perform routine tasks; consumers also play a role in producing these experiences (e.g. self-service).

Cultural Globalisation

• Choice vs. Homogenisation: Diverse identities can exist alongside similar consumption practices.

• Bryman (1999): Suggests co-existence of diversity and homogenisation in cultural identity.

Disneyisation

• Characterized by themed experiences and intertwining consumption products for a cohesive lifestyle experience.

  • Key Elements:

    • Theming

    • De-differentiation

    • Merchandising

Cultural Imperialism

• Cautions against over-emphasizing Western influences; local adaptations exist.

• Example: McDonald's adapts to regional cultures and tastes.