characteristics of Orientalism. How may Orientalism and prejudice contribute to hate crimes against Muslims and Arabs
Please tell us what you think -- and we'll be glad to comment.
Since Orientalism is not my area of expertise, I searched Google under the key words "Orientalism" to get these possible sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orientalism
http://www.english.emory.edu/Bahri/Orientalism.html
However, Muslims and Arabs, for the most part would not be considerred "Oriental" but rather from the Middle East. Prejudice can contribute to hate crimes against any anyone who is considered a member of an outgroup — "them" rather than "us."
These articles might be helpful in analyzing prejudice:
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/PrejudiceCauseSolution.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/Prejudice.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/PrejudiceUsThem.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/PrejudiceChanges.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/PrejudiceReduce.html
I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.
Orientalism refers to a set of assumptions, stereotypes, and representations that Western societies have historically had about the East, particularly the Middle East, Asia, and North Africa. It emerged during the 18th and 19th centuries as a result of Western colonization, imperialism, and trade relations with these regions.
Some characteristics of Orientalism include:
1. Exaggeration and generalization: Orientalism often involves the exaggeration and generalization of cultural, social, and religious differences between the West and the East. It portrays the East as exotic, mysterious, and inferior to the West.
2. Essentialism: Orientalism tends to depict the East as having fixed and unchanging characteristics, portraying Eastern cultures as static and unprogressive compared to the dynamic and progressive West.
3. Othering: Orientalism creates an "us vs. them" dichotomy, defining the East as different and foreign, and positioning the West as superior and civilized. This creates a sense of "otherness" and reinforces stereotypes and prejudices against Eastern cultures.
Now, regarding the connection between Orientalism, prejudice, and hate crimes against Muslims and Arabs - it is important to note that Muslims and Arabs are often targets of prejudice and discrimination due to the association with the perceived "Otherness" of the East.
Orientalism contributes to prejudice against Muslims and Arabs in several ways:
1. Stereotyping: Orientalist representations have perpetuated stereotypes about Muslims and Arabs, portraying them as violent, backward, fanatical, and oppressive. These stereotypes contribute to negative attitudes and prejudices, which can escalate into hate crimes.
2. Dehumanization: Orientalism often dehumanizes Muslims and Arabs, reducing them to a monolithic group and denying their individuality, agency, and diversity. Dehumanization can lead to increased hostility and violence towards them.
3. Justification of policies: Orientalist ideas and narratives have been used to justify discriminatory policies and actions against Muslims and Arabs, such as surveillance, profiling, immigration restrictions, and military interventions. These policies can perpetuate prejudice and create a hostile environment that fosters hate crimes.
It is important to challenge Orientalism and prejudice in order to address hate crimes and promote understanding, empathy, and respect for diversity. By educating ourselves, questioning stereotypes, and promoting cultural exchange and dialogue, we can work towards combating prejudice and promoting inclusivity and equality.