discuss Orientalism and the Misrepresentation of Eastern Cultures

[Yama]

Western narratives often portray the “Orient” as exotic, backward, or mystical. If you have read Edward Said’s "Orientalism" you will understand how the West defines and distorts Eastern identities. Do you think the West still control global narratives about the East? I mean is Edward Said’s "Orientalism" still true on how the West sees the East? How do modern media and academia reinforce or challenge these stereotypes?

 

[Apsara]

I believe Orientalism has played a significant role in misrepresenting Eastern cultures, often portraying them as exotic, backward, or mysterious. This oversimplification ignores the complexity and diversity of these societies. I see it as a reflection of power dynamics, where the West controls how the East is perceived, rather than letting Eastern cultures define themselves.

 

[Yama]

I think this is the result of colonialism. It is said Vasco da Gama discovered India, this is taught not just in the European text books but even in India. However, India was a thriving civilization when Europeans hadn't even built cities. The western intellectuals always looked down upon the people in Asia, they misinterpreted not just cultures but even the literature. However, things are changing now.

 

[Maina]

I rhink Eastern cultures are misinterpreted by imposing Western biases, reducing complex societies to stereotypes. I’ve seen this in films and literature, where nuanced histories are ignored, leading to false perceptions.