Introduction to Postcolonialism

 Answer the following questions on your blog:

1) Look at the first page. What is colonialism - also known as cultural imperialism? 

Colonialism is when a powerful country takes control of another country’s land, people, and resources. Cultural imperialism is how how the dominant country imposes its culture,values and and beliefs onto the colonised society often making their own culture seem superior.

2) Now look at the second page. What is postcolonialism? 

Postcolonialism is the study of the effects and legacy of colonialism after it has ended. It looks at how former colonies are still influenced by colonial power, especially in culture, identity, and inequality.

3) How does Paul Gilroy suggest postcolonialism influences British culture?

Paul Gilroy argues that British culture has been shaped by its colonial past through multicultural influences.

4) What is 'othering'?

Othering is the process of seeing or treating people as different, inferior, or not part of the dominant group

5) What examples of 'othering' are provided by the article?

Ethnic minorities being stereotyped in media

6) What is 'double consciousness'? 

Double consciousness is the idea that minority groups see themselves through two perspectives: their own identity and how they are viewed by a dominant society.

7) What are 'racial hierarchies'?

Racial hierarchies are systems where some races are seen as superior to others, often placing white people at the top and minority groups below, leading to inequality and discrimination.

8) What examples from recent media products challenge the idea of racial hierarchies? 

Diverse casting in films and TV (e.g. Black leads in major roles)