Explain what is meant by cultural imperialism.

“Global interactions always lead to positive environmental change.” Discuss this statement.

A definition of cultural imperialism supported by further expansion is expected. One suitable definition would be: “The promotion and imposition of the cultural traits of one nation upon another; a consequence of globalization”. The supporting explanation should identify the following aspects of cultural imperialism, developing some of them further as shown below.

• Cultural imperialism involves cultural traits, their means of transfer, and their consequences.
• Cultural traits include language, consumerism, customs, morals, art, architecture, religion and education.
• The means of transfer include education, ICT, communications, the media, TNCs, trade and tourism.
• The consequences may include dilution or loss of indigenous culture and the imposition of traits of the dominant culture.

The best responses will incorporate examples, such as the “Japanization” of South Korea.

It is not necessary for responses to consider all aspects of cultural imperialism, provided that a range of traits and some mention of a variety of means of transfer is expressed.

Marks should be allocated according to the markbands.

It is expected that better responses will consider both positive and negative effects of global interactions.

Positive consequences of global interactions might include the introduction of improved technologies by some TNCs and the work of civil societies (including NGOs such as Greenpeace). International environmental agreements, such as the Kyoto Protocol, and the spread of knowledge and awareness of environmental issues through education might also be discussed.

Negative consequences include the degradation of landscapes and creation of homogenized landscapes due to agro-industrialization and globalization of cityscapes.

Some international interactions are reciprocal, in that benefits at the source may be counterbalanced by adverse consequences at the destination (movement of polluting industries; transfer of waste).

The best responses accessing bands E/F will discuss both urban and rural areas and a range of economic activities, such as the exploitation of natural resources, manufacturing and services including tourism. They may also discuss examples at a range of scales.

It is not essential for responses to treat positive and negative consequences of global interactions in equal depth. A good discussion of one may compensate for a weaker discussion of the other.

Marks should be allocated according to the markbands.