Cultural commodification

Definition

Cultural commodification is the process through which cultural elements, practices, or symbols are transformed into goods or services that can be bought and sold in the marketplace. This transformation often involves the simplification and alteration of original meanings and contexts to appeal to consumer markets. As a result, cultural commodification impacts how cultures are perceived and valued, particularly in relation to tourism and urban environments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cultural commodification can lead to the commercialization of traditional practices, like dance or art, where their original significance is overshadowed by market demands.
2. In tourism, local cultures may be packaged as 'authentic experiences' to attract visitors, which can distort the actual cultural practices of the community.
3. Urban areas often showcase cultural commodification through festivals or markets that highlight local traditions as sellable products rather than genuine expressions.
4. This process can create economic opportunities for some communities but may also lead to cultural homogenization, where unique practices are lost or diluted.
5. Critics argue that cultural commodification undermines the authenticity and integrity of cultural expressions, as they become mere commodities in a global market.

Review Questions

• How does cultural commodification impact the authenticity of cultural practices in tourism?
  • Cultural commodification can significantly impact the authenticity of cultural practices in tourism by transforming them into simplified versions that cater to tourist expectations. This often results in locals altering their traditional customs to create 'authentic experiences' for visitors. Consequently, while tourists may perceive these experiences as genuine representations of the culture, they may actually lack the depth and significance that these practices held before commodification.
• Discuss the relationship between cultural commodification and globalization in urban settings.
  • Cultural commodification and globalization are closely intertwined in urban settings as global market forces influence local cultures. In cities, diverse cultural expressions are often packaged and marketed to attract tourism and investment. This can lead to a vibrant exchange of ideas but may also result in a loss of unique cultural identities as local traditions are reshaped to meet global standards, thus creating a homogenized urban culture that prioritizes profit over preservation.
• Evaluate the implications of cultural commodification on social identity and community cohesion within urban environments.
  • Cultural commodification has significant implications for social identity and community cohesion within urban environments. As local cultures become commercialized, there may be a shift in how individuals relate to their own cultural heritage, sometimes leading to feelings of alienation or loss. Furthermore, as communities strive to attract tourists through commodified culture, internal conflicts can arise regarding what aspects of their culture should be showcased, potentially weakening communal bonds and leading to divisions among residents about the authenticity and purpose of their cultural expressions.

Related terms

Cultural appropriation: The adoption of elements of one culture by members of another culture, often without permission or understanding, which can lead to controversy over ownership and representation.

Globalization: The process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale, often affecting cultural practices and identities.

Cultural tourism: A form of tourism that focuses on experiencing the cultural heritage of a destination, including its arts, history, and lifestyle, often leading to commodification of local cultures.