Reader Response (Draft 2)

In Kraidy's (2002) article, "Globalisation of Culture through the Media", he discusses about the debate between the contribution of mass media on the globalisation of culture and the idea of cultural imperialism. While some believe that the free flow of information across borders is beneficial, others argue that Western culture has overpowered other cultures. Kraidy then introduces the idea of cultural hybridisation, whereby new cultures are created by adapting foreign cultures into existing ones. According to him, this is pre-existing and through mass media, there is an analytical shift from cultural imperialism to globalisation.

When Kraidy wrote about the role of transnational mass media in impacting cultures all around the world, he made a point of emphasising that this role is a substantial one, and that hybridity already exists among cultures. I find myself agreeing with his point as indeed, the advancements in technology in the modern era has aided the exchange of information without the restriction of geographical boundaries. 

Examples of hybridity among cultures are aplenty. McDonald's, the biggest fast food chain in the world, serves different foods in different countries according to their tastes and preferences. To gain a foothold in the respective local markets, vegetarian burgers are sold in India's franchises, and betel nuts are a common side dish in Taiwan's McDonald's outlets (Furze, Savy, Brym and Lie, 2008). This is a brilliant form of adaptation which has enabled McDonald's to successfully expand its brand worldwide while preserving its brand simultaneously.

In my opinion, the infiltration of American culture into that of other countries does not equate to cultural imperialism. It is important to note that while external cultures are being embraced, local cultures are usually being retained at the same time. Therefore, it is an inherent fallacy to claim that the mere spread of foreign ideas into a local culture is considered an act of "taking over" it.

In conclusion, cultural hybridisation is taking the world by storm. While it is important to preserve one's culture, I believe there is no harm embracing external cultures as well. Moreover, with the absence of geographical barriers between almost every country in the world, it is an inexorable truth that the spreading of ideas is never going to stop. Instead of shunning away from globalisation, why not embrace it?

References:
Furze, B., Savy, P., Brym, R. J., & Lie, J. (2008). Globalisation and development. Sociology in today's world (p. 465). South Melbourne, Vic.: Cengage Learning Australia.

(378 words)