In the Know

Politics of cultural identity. What does that mean? Let’s define that shall we?

I define cultural identity as the person you are because of your surroundings through adolescence. They include: The foods you eat, the clothes you wear, the type of home you live in, the religion to which you subscribe, the traditions you celebrate or choose to ignore, the language you speak the laws you follow—your mental attitude .    Politics is basically who gets what.

Do culturally-influenced passions and behaviors move consumers to buy a product based on their social functions?

I think in America cultural identities are complicated ‘cos, let’s face it, powerful people are usually white. All the presidents so far have been white. People who are not white are forced to assimilate to an invisible white culture or flop. If you choose to embrace noticable aspects of an “exotic” culture, you’re looked at a bit differently by others in American society. Some people assume the values of others are different and not as important, or as good based upon a glance. Why are people still living in this conqueror/conquered mindset? Don’t say the media.

Presocialization by external forces within entertainment consumed does occur before an individual is old enough to make a conscious efforts to accept differences. I’ll concede that much. However, it’s when stereotypes assume a summary of cultural values and preferences such as fashion choices and music genre enjoyment that problems arise.

Why don’t people step back and say: “Hey… this is outright crap. Why am I laughing at this token black guy’s exaggerated demeanor? Why do production companies still push this idiotic drivel on people? Why are people buying it?”

The unavoidable topic of discussion: What can a multiracial candidate in the presidential race do for our society?

Can the fact that Obama is being taken seriously as a presidential candidate bring racial conflicts to a point of compromise and peace within American borders?

Will it help Americans to look beyond skin color to things that count?

What do you think? Blog your thoughts here.

-Vanessa