Occidental-centric

Occidental-centric describes a viewpoint or perspective that prioritizes, values, or emphasizes Western (European and North American) cultures, values, history, and experiences above those of other cultures, often implicitly or explicitly placing them as the standard or norm. It can manifest in various ways, from academic discourse and media representation to political policies and economic practices. This perspective frequently leads to the marginalization, misunderstanding, and misrepresentation of non-Western cultures and perspectives. It assumes that Western culture is universal and superior, therefore is the central point of reference for all topics. It is important to analyze and critique this tendency in order to foster a more equitable and inclusive global understanding. The impact leads to the ignorance of global achievements of others.

Occidental-centric meaning with examples

• The curriculum, heavily focused on European history and literature, exemplified an Occidental-centric approach, neglecting the rich historical narratives and literary traditions of Asia, Africa, and South America. This skewed perspective limited the students' understanding of global diversity and contributed to a narrow worldview.
• Many international development projects, designed with an Occidental-centric mindset, failed to consider the specific cultural contexts and local knowledge of the communities they aimed to serve, resulting in ineffective and sometimes harmful outcomes.
• The media's frequent portrayal of the Middle East solely through the lens of conflict and terrorism, without nuanced representation of the diverse cultures and lifestyles of the region, reflects an Occidental-centric bias.
• An Occidental-centric viewpoint within political discussions about globalization often prioritized the interests of Western nations, neglecting the economic disparities and social impacts faced by developing countries.
• The art world sometimes displays Occidental-centricity by disproportionately valuing and showcasing Western art, while undervaluing or overlooking artistic creations from other parts of the world, limiting exposure of others.