Edward Said: Culture and Imperialism, conference at York University, Toronto (1993)
Mar 25, 2020
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Edward Said, author of 'Orientalism' and 'Culture and Imperialism', discusses global power dynamics, imperialism, and American exceptionalism. The podcast explores imperialism's impact on global dynamics, cultural beliefs, and economic disparities. It delves into the struggles of weaker nations against Western dominance, analyzing US foreign policy, global interventions, and the need for a new critical consciousness to challenge imperial attitudes.
Western powers rapidly expanded territories from 55% to 85% from 1800 to 1914.
American imperialism has been overlooked in historical narrative, focusing on notions of uniqueness.
Deep dives
The Rise of Western Power in the 19th Century
During the 19th century, Britain, France, and other Western countries concentrated unprecedented power, leading to an increase in the acquisition of territories. Western powers claimed 55% of the Earth's surface in 1800 and expanded to approximately 85% by 1914, acquiring territory at a rapid rate. This rise of the West climaxed in the 19th century, marking a period of immense colonial expansion and domination.
American Imperialism and Expansion
The United States, founded upon the idea of an empire, experienced territorial growth and dominance during the 19th century. The US expanded into regions like the Philippines, the Caribbean, and Central America, pursuing perceived national interests. Despite being founded as an empire, American imperialism has been downplayed in historical discourse, focusing more on notions of uniqueness and opportunity.
Imperialism and Cultural Influence
Imperialism is characterized by dominating distant territories, with colonialism as a consequence entailing settlements in those territories. The cultural impact of imperialism is evident in language, attitudes, and beliefs that justify domination. Notions of superiority, subordination, and dependency permeate the vocabulary and concepts associated with imperialism, shaping societal attitudes and justifying imperial actions.
Legacy of Imperialism and Global Dynamics
The legacy of imperialism persists in post-colonial contexts, influencing power dynamics and economic relations between developed and developing nations. The concept of imperialism continues to manifest in economic, political, and military relations globally. The shift from direct colonialism to modern imperialism reflects ongoing challenges related to economic disparities, power imbalances, and hegemonic control.
Conference on Culture and Imperialism by the author of "Orientalism", Edward Said. The text of the conference can be also found in the additional materials of the course, here on his own voice.
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