Orientalism

Orientalism is the patronizing way Western attitude towards Middle Eastern, Asian, and North African societies.  In one aspect, it is a way of viewing that imagines and exaggerates the difference between of Arab peoples and cultures to that of Western cultures. Early examples of Orientalism were depicted in the early 19th and 20th century through European paintings and photographs. In the paintings, Arabian culture is depicted as a mysterious place of sand, harems, and belly dancers. A modern-day example of Orientalism is Disney's movie Aladdin. Growing up,  I loved watching the movie. As I got older, I realized how unjust portrayal of Arab culture. In the opening song, Arabian Nights, it exaggerates how Aladdin's home is a very mysterious and faraway place much different than the audience. For example, "When they cut off you ear if they don't like your face, it's barbaric, but hey, it's home." It blatantly depicts Arab culture as ruthless and uncivilized. Aladdin is a clear example of Orientalism.

I think we do have an Orientalism mindset even though individuals from Western cultures will not admit it. Or, they are unconsciously unaware that they do. For example, there this is viner named Anwar Jibawi. He is Palestinian-American  and in the past had created stereotypical vines about Arab culture to get laughs and views. In one vine, he is dressed in traditional clothing and outside the elevator. He talks on the phone and states how the party was the "bomb" enthusiastically Yet, the Americans only head bomb and quickly look anxiously scared because he looked Middle-Eastern. If it was any other culture, the people would not have gotten so anxious that quick. It shows how Orientalism comes into place. It holds stereotypes about the Middle-East that promote ignorance and discrimination. It is harmful.