Question

When the culture of a politically and economically dominant society influences a less powerful society, it is known as:

• A. Multiculturalism
• B. Cultural Hybridization
• C. Cultural Homogenisation
• D. Clash of Civilization

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

When analyzing the effect of a dominant society's culture on a less powerful one, the concept to explore is Cultural Homogenisation. This term describes the process through which elements of the dominant culture spread across and become integrated into the less dominant culture, leading to uniformity or similarity in cultural expressions. 

Here is an analysis of the given options:

• Multiculturalism: Refers to the coexistence of diverse cultures in a single environment, promoting tolerance and the retention of distinct cultural identities.
• Cultural Hybridization: Involves the blending of elements from different cultures, creating a new, hybrid culture.
• Cultural Homogenisation: Occurs when a dominant culture extensively influences another, leading to loss of unique cultural traits, supporting the concept of cultural uniformity.
• Clash of Civilization: Discusses the idea that future conflicts will be based on cultural and religious differences rather than ideological or economic factors.

Thus, when the dominant society influences the less powerful, encouraging a merging into a singular cultural expression, Cultural Homogenisation is the appropriate term.

Answer 2

Cultural homogenization occurs when a dominant culture’s values, beliefs, and practices influence a less powerful society, leading to a reduction in cultural diversity. This often results from globalization and the spread of cultural products from powerful nations, leading to a more uniform global culture, sometimes at the expense of local traditions and practices.