Cultural Imperialism

Last class we spoke about cultural imperialism. This has been a common topic in many of our classes - international relations, globalization, etc. In IR, we learned about the Commercial Peace Theory and how interdependence between nations may promote peace but we learned in this class - computers and info technology - that it may also create cultural homogenization. In addition, it may spur regionalism or what some may even call American imperialism or modern day colonialism. The idea that products alone create imperialism seems to be a stretch. Can this be said for a product that is not American? Would one call the international furnishing store Ikea a form of Swedish imperialism? No. And yet, chains such as MacDonalds, American clothing lines, and American tv shows and internet sites are interpreted as American imperialism. It is not simply about the product but also the values associated with it (as we learned from the Donald Duck movie shown in class). Ikea does not promote socialism (a Swedish value) along with its furniture. However, one may argue that American tv and internet does promote American cornerstones such as liberal democracy and trade, individualism, and "freedom". The harm of such promotions is a give and take. My grandfather, a former economist for both the United Nations and the World Bank, argues MacDonalds provides protein through their meat - even though not high quality - to places of the world (i.e. China) that may struggle to have enough protein in their diet. So in fact, MacDonalds is a service to the world. Others will argue that MacDonalds poisons their children with fatty acids, chemicals, and carbohydrates leading to obesity. These products definitely come with values that can be good or bad. It is all about the interpretation. But to say that the products alone are an enforcment of American values abroad is merely the beginning.