1) Mbembe claims that our universities are “Westernised”. What does he mean by this? Explain what is meant by the term “westernisation” and how it can be related to the Eurocentric art canon. [5 marks] (p 31 – 33) according to Joseph Mbembe (2016) Decolonising the University (pp 29 – 33)
Mbembe argues that our universities are "Westernised" in the sense that they are heavily influenced by Western knowledge systems, values, and ways of knowing. This notion of Westernisation refers to the dominance and prioritization of Western ideologies, perspectives, and cultural norms in educational institutions.
In the context of the Eurocentric art canon, Westernisation can be seen in the way that European art, history, and cultural values are predominantly taught and studied. The Eurocentric art canon places European art and artists at the center, often neglecting or marginalizing the contributions and perspectives of non-Western cultures and artists.
By centering and valorizing European art, the Eurocentric art canon perpetuates the idea that Western art is superior and more important than art from other cultures. This narrow focus on European art not only limits the diversity of perspectives and voices represented in art education, but also reinforces a hierarchy that positions Western culture as the standard by which all other cultures are measured.
In essence, Westernisation in the context of the Eurocentric art canon means that European art and culture are given priority and prominence, while art from non-Western cultures is often relegated to the periphery or ignored altogether. This contributes to the perpetuation of a Eurocentric worldview and reinforces the power dynamics between Western and non-Western cultures in the field of art.
According to Joseph Mbembe, the term "Westernised" refers to the domination of Western values, knowledge, and institutions in our universities. It implies that the education systems and curricula of these universities are heavily influenced by Western ideas, perspectives, and ways of thinking.
"Westernisation" refers to the process through which non-Western societies adopt or are influenced by Western cultural, social, economic, and political practices. It involves the assimilation, adaptation, or imposition of Western ideologies, norms, and practices into non-Western contexts.
In the context of the Eurocentric art canon, Westernisation can be seen in the dominance of Western art and artists in the mainstream art world. The Eurocentric art canon refers to the collection of artworks that are considered to be of high value and significance in Western societies. It often excludes or marginalizes non-Western art forms, artists, and cultural perspectives.
By centering Western art and artists as the standard of value and excellence, the Eurocentric art canon perpetuates a Western-centric view of artistic production and aesthetic criteria. This reflects the broader power dynamics of Western domination and the marginalization of non-Western cultures and knowledge systems.
Mbembe argues that decolonising the university involves challenging and transforming these Westernised structures and knowledge systems. It requires rethinking and diversifying the curriculum, incorporating non-Western perspectives and voices, and creating spaces for alternative ways of knowing and thinking.
To understand what Mbembe means by claiming that our universities are "Westernised," we need to first understand the term "westernisation" and its connection to the Eurocentric art canon.
"Westernisation" refers to the process through which Western culture, values, and systems are adopted and prioritized over other cultural perspectives. It involves the spread of Western ideals, practices, and ways of thinking, often at the expense of local or indigenous cultures.
In the context of universities, Westernisation refers to the dominance of Western knowledge systems, curriculum, teaching methods, and epistemologies. It implies that universities are structured based on Western perspectives, theories, and methodologies, often neglecting or undervaluing other non-Western perspectives and knowledge.
The Eurocentric art canon, on the other hand, refers to the dominant and widely accepted tradition of Western art, which focuses primarily on the achievements and contributions of European artists. It presents European art as the pinnacle of artistic excellence, neglecting or marginalizing art from other regions or cultures.
The connection between Westernisation and the Eurocentric art canon lies in the privileging of Western art and cultural perspectives within universities. Westernisation contributes to the perpetuation of the Eurocentric art canon by placing Western artistic traditions at the center of art education, research, and appreciation.
To comprehend Mbembe's argument fully, it is recommended to refer to his work "Decolonising the University" (2016), specifically pages 31-33, where he elaborates on the Westernisation of universities and its relation to the Eurocentric art canon in more detail.