Orientalise

To Orientalise is to represent or depict a non-Western culture, particularly those of Asia, in a stereotyped, often romanticized or exoticized, and inaccurate way. This typically involves imposing Western perspectives, values, and prejudices onto the 'Orient,' creating a distorted and often essentialist view. It can manifest in literature, art, media, and even in academic discourse, reinforcing power imbalances and contributing to cultural misunderstandings. The process often involves a simplification and generalization of diverse cultures, reducing them to a set of perceived characteristics that serve Western agendas. The goal is to other a culture and give a biased and misinformed outlook on it.

Orientalise meaning with examples

• The travelogue, filled with descriptions of mysterious Eastern rituals and exoticised women, was criticised for Orientalising the culture, presenting a distorted and romanticised view that lacked depth or accuracy. The author imposed Western assumptions, making them seem authentic and normal. The work failed to grapple with the subject.
• The marketing campaign, featuring images of opulent palaces and submissive women, was accused of Orientalising the product, playing on stereotypes to appeal to Western desires for the exotic and alluring. This perpetuates misconceptions. The campaign created an inaccurate impression.
• The historical narrative, focusing solely on the perceived despotism of Eastern rulers, was criticised for Orientalising the region, ignoring the complexities of social structures and economic systems, which were often far more complicated than portrayed, and making the subject appear uncivilized. This did not show any understanding.
• The art exhibition, showcasing traditional artifacts with lengthy, patronising captions, was seen as Orientalising the culture, framing the objects through a Western lens and controlling the interpretation of the history and creativity of the exhibited peoples, preventing the viewers from accessing accurate knowledge. This was very controlling.