Culture is diverse, unique, and specific to a particular region or group. Each culture has its own set of rules, knowledge, beliefs, art, customs, habits, and capabilities (Katrini, 2018). Some habits are appealing and enchanting, while others are repulsive and revolting. Nevertheless, these practices, habits, art, and customs attract fans from within and without the cultural group. Many cultural practices like yoga, meditation, and smudging have become popular for people outside the culture groups they originate. This has led to numerous debates on whether or not outsiders are allowed to partake and participate in a culture that is not their own. Many scholars, interviewers, and cultural leaders have shared their sentiments on this topic, but the public still needs to reach a consensus. It is essential to unpack this controversy as different cultural groups cry foul and claim that outsiders are eroding their culture.
On the other hand, outsiders claim they only want a taste of these unique, diverse, and sometimes divine habits, arts, and practices. It is clear that both parties only seek to honour and embrace these cultural practices. This paper gathers data from current research, personal anecdotes, and interviews with cultural groups and individuals to prove that outsiders should be allowed to practice a culture that is not their own if only they do so respectfully and mindfully.
Today, we exist on a multiethnic, multicultural and multiracial dimension that makes it almost impossible for us to imitate other people’s culture. Humans partake consciously or subconsciously in trends rooted in diverse cultural behaviour (Cattien et al., 2023). Allowing individuals to freely express themselves without necessarily taking credit for borrowed practices and belief systems is more beneficial than harmful. It is a method of showing appreciation for culture while fostering more intimate connections among various communities. Furthermore, the important thing to realize when incorporating specific cultural elements is the consideration of context and examination. For instance, I am Muslim with many Christian friends who were raised in a different background than I was; therefore, when I invite them to a celebratory event at our home, I would appreciate it if they dress differently than they would when attending class. Wearing culturally appropriate clothing on such occasions is not offensive; it shows tolerance, respect and honour. It is not a display of inauthenticity or hypocrisy but an opportunity to recognize the original significance from which varied beliefs are established.
Consequently, cultural appreciation is aligned with ideologies centred on neoliberal multiculturalism that does not focus on the superiority of certain cultures over others. Recognizing that individuals can find satisfaction and assistance from cultures that are not their own is the fastest way to initiate cultural harmony (Cattien et al., 2023). It should not be taboo for people to familiarize themselves with concepts from other cultures that might shift their perspectives towards certain topics. Accepting that other people can participate in varied beliefs without appropriating significant aspects of cultural mannerisms is proof of increased cultural awareness. It elaborates on how people can challenge and change their value systems to coexist peacefully in the modern world. Copying and recreating certain aspects of cultures ensures that future generations do not subscribe to barbaric ideologies and philosophies. Cultural appreciation does not erode the role of certain cultures in society. It does not seek to distort, dominate or decontextualize; instead, it is a valorized act of diffusion, learning, blending and adapting (Cruz et al., 2023).
For this reason, people, especially in this global age, should not be thoroughly restricted from participating in various activities. There is no need to dismiss individuals who understand the origin of other communities’ practices and separate themselves from perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Staying vigilant and comprehending the true intent of people whose only goal is to explore the uniqueness of our existence through culture can go a long way in creating a unified experience for everyone.
The indulgence of individuals from various walks of life is a necessity. It is problematic to exclude certain people from learning and exposing themselves to different cultural perspectives. It might reinforce disrespectful notions and biases that might be detrimental to the association and growth of a particular people (Cruz et al., 2023). I interviewed a cultural group in our arts department, and they convinced me that cultural appreciation is better than it may seem. The members were very proud of their heritage and history, so much so that they found it flattering when students in the university imitated their fashion choices, how they put on their makeup and how they wore their hair. They said they were excited when the Head of Music asked them if they could help incorporate their melodious tunes into the school’s anthem. It was great for them to gain the recognition they desired for a long time. “People see us and wonder why we express how we do, and they do not comprehend the magnitude of their actions towards us. We are a minority and we are aware, but it would be nice if more people made an effort to learn our culture. We are not seeking validation for ourselves, but we hope to preserve our culture for as long as possible.” One interviewee said. Respectfully participating in cultural events and celebrations proves the willingness to learn. It is an opportunity to understand why different societies have different approaches to traditions. Cultural appreciation paves the way for tolerance, collaboration and a shared sense of humanity.
The workplace today is undeniably culturally diverse. Therefore, it is critical to create a conducive environment where people can freely express themselves without feeling like they are infringing on other people’s cultures. Encouraging inclusivity and cultural appreciation in the corporate world might include recognizing certain important events and acting appropriately on those days without causing a nuance (Pless et al., 2004). For instance, I once worked part-time in a retail shop, and on the first week of Ramadhan, they fasted in solidarity with me. They might not have understood the impact of their actions, but it became clear to me that allowing others to participate in my faith established respect, trust and a sense of raised awareness. The actions were not built on pretence. They were built on solid grounds that gave them a different perspective on how they viewed Islam and the whole concept of Ramadhan. Such acts prove that, given the chance, outsiders can be influenced to comprehend the role of other cultures in society. It is a chance to realize that the rituals and practices are not that different and that we are working towards one goal: to coexist harmoniously despite our differences and allegiances to certain norms and traditions.
However, it should be noted that there should be precautions when allowing outsiders to participate in certain cultural practices and beliefs. A disadvantage lies in including each individual in certain sacred rituals, especially in this digital era. Some people use these chances to reinforce harmful behaviour, hence fueling injustice, inequality and racism (Lalonde, 2021). They do not take time to understand the origin and intention behind certain actions because they only seek validation from society. They exploit and misrepresent the essence of certain cultures because they have access to certain resources. For instance, there was a girl in our class who wore a hijab and the full Muslim attire just for the sake of it, as a fashion choice without recognizing the meaning of her actions. It was a mockery of a culture that is so dear to other people, and that is what happens when individuals pretend to associate themselves with certain communities. Indulging in culturally appropriate activities is flattering, but decontextualizing and asserting a sense of dominance towards certain people should not be tolerated. Most cultures that suffer from appropriation are minorities (Lalonde, 2021). In essence, they cannot take back what is rightfully theirs without facing backlash from groups that consider themselves superior. It does not matter whether in makeup, hair, art, dance, music, language, or cuisine; people should speak up against false representations of certain cultures. Sharing one’s culture to improve lives is one thing, but stealing certain aspects of a culture while ignoring its original significance should not be tolerated or accepted.
Culture is divergent. Culture is beautiful. Culture should be experienced by each individual freely without fear of being called out or cancelled. We should each advocate for cultural appreciation because it plays a substantial role in creating a harmonious and interconnected society. The complex exploration of various cultural dynamics, personal experiences and my interaction with cultural groups emphasizes the positive influence of outsider indulgence in cultural practices. However, the essay also acknowledges the need for precaution to prevent harmful cultural appropriation practices. It reinforces the significance of understanding the background and intention behind cultural practices. The goal is to speak up against the false representation and exploitation of minority cultures. It is the first step in fostering genuine cultural appreciation. When approached with respect and honour, cultural appreciation can be a powerful tool in building bridges while fostering mutual understanding. It can create a harmonious experience for each individual because we exist in a multicultural, multiethnic and multiracial world.
References
Cattien, J., & Stopford, R. J. (2023). The appropriating subject: Cultural appreciation, property and entitlement. Philosophy & Social Criticism, 49(9), 1061-1078.https://doi.org/10.1177/01914537211059515
Cruz, A. G. B., Seo, Y., & Scaraboto, D. (2023). Between Cultural Appreciation and Cultural Appropriation: Self-Authorizing the Consumption of Cultural Difference. Journal of Consumer Research, ucad022. https://doi.org/10.1093/jcr/ucad022
Katrini, E. (2018). Sharing Culture: On definitions, values, and emergence. The Sociological Review, 66(2), 425-446. https://doi.org/10.1177/0038026118758550
Lalonde, D. (2021). Does cultural appropriation cause harm? Politics, Groups, and Identities, 9 (2), 329-346. https://doi.org/10.1080/21565503.2019.1674160
Pless, N., & Maak, T. (2004). Building an inclusive diversity culture: Principles, processes and practice. Journal of business ethics, 54 (2), 129-147. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0147-1767(03)00033-6
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