Michelle Wang-Arab, Islam And The Dogmas Of The West-Said, Indo-Chic: Late Capitalist Orientalism and Imperial Culture-Maira Blog

Arab, Islam And The Dogmas Of The West-Said

In “Arabs, Islam And The Dogmas Of The West” Said discusses that orientalism is often perceived as “at the bottom something either to be feared” “or to be controlled” (105). Orientalism is viewed as a problem and feared by the West. The West wants to strengthen its power and discourage the advancements in the East. This relates to back to globalization is dominated by the West and controlled by a dominant mainstream society. In addition, racialization is imposed toward the East as the East is referred to as savage and inferior. Perhaps, orientalism is feared by the West as the West wants to continue to preserve and integrate its culture into society and as this fits its economic interests. Because of hegemony and a dominant society, the West wants to continue to control the world. These theories cause many groups to experience marginalization and oppression in the current era. We continue to see that the United States and Western countries dominate international affairs and control third world countries. However, I do see many non-Western nations rising in power and expand its civilization which is a sign towards fighting against domination, the unjust system, and aligns with cultural resistance.

Indo-Chic: Late Capitalist Orientalism and Imperial Culture-Maira

In “Indo-Chic: Late Capitalist Orientalism and Imperial Culture” Maira emphasizes that “Indo-Chic, and “Asian cool” more generally, exemplifies a particular set of historical conjunctures and social anxieties, a “late capitalist orientalism” (223). Indo-Chic 1990s style is referred as the late capitalist orientalism continues to be viewed negatively by the West due to the fear of orientalism. Because of a dominant mainstream society, society sees that there is a need to satisfy the mainstream of popular culture which gives an advantage to the white, middle class. In addition, Maira also states that “Indo-chic is often seen as primarily an interchange between South Asian and white Americans in the eyes of both South Asian and white youths…”(231). This refers to the concept that it is difficult to experience authentic cultures due to a dominant society and assimilation. In addition, this can also lead to hybridity and fusion of cultures. Even though cultures are spread, it aligns with the interests of the dominant mainstream and many individuals are losing their native cultures over time. Because of the fear of orientalism perceived by the West, it is difficult for diasporic communities to be able to experience authentic culture and for their roots, cultures to be preserved.

Question: In what ways does orientalism allow for us to see the United States imperialism and domination in the Middle East?