Orientalism derives it's meaning from the most simple of conflicts: Us vs Them. Familiar vs Strange. East vs West. Two cultures running parallel to the other. Defined by their differences. These differences that don't make them equal however. In fact, the West is in total domination, wholly controlling reputation of the East. His post-colonial theory shows how so much of the Wests perceived strength is drawn from it's setting when juxtaposed with the East.
Orientalism, just like racism, is still alive and well today. Just like African Americans, Muslims are routinely used as the scapegoat for the world's problems, and the conservative media has made them representatives of their hemisphere. It creates a strong sense of East vs West, and with people like Trump dominating the Republican primaries, I don't think its going away anytime soon.
I made the same connection to Trump. I really thought that it was the prime example of the American idea of superiority. It also really connects nicely with the stances on the East that are presented in the article. Nice job!
ReplyDeleteI think the idea of the Muslims being the representatives for their hemisphere is an interesting and accurate representation of what is going on in the world today and it makes you realize how prevalent the idea of Orientalism is in our society and we didn't even realize it.
ReplyDeleteI also made the connection to how some political candidates are capitalizing on stereotypes and making people fearful on Muslims to gain a political advantage. It is upsetting that so many people support these candidates.
ReplyDeleteI like your connection to Trump, I wasn't really thinking about that when I read it, but there sure are a lot of connections.
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