Group Discussion: Globalization & its influence on Indian Culture

Adopting Western Culture:

Over the last decade or so, the Indian society has undergone rapid change in its culture. Globalization, corporate world, expansion of IT sector and various other forces have been the reason behind this change. Most of these forces have come from the western nations. Thus, time and again an issue keeps cropping up whether it is fair for the Indians to adopt western culture or not. Well, it has its own pros and cons.

Ever evolving culture:

Culture is not law. It is subject to change with time. Hence, if the youth of the nation or, in fact, anyone wishes to switch to or adopt some aspects of the western culture, there is nothing wrong in it. It is a matter of choice. There is no use of a culture if you don’t feel a sense of belongingness to it or respect for its ideals. Generally, western culture is associated with a lot of negative schemas. But we can’t ignore the fact that there are so many practices in western culture that can prove to be very effective in increasing the condition of our society. For example, the emphasis on free and compulsory quality education; equal respect, rights and dignity for women in family as well as work environment; letting the child go out and make their own life and career after the age of 18 etc.

Understanding the difference:

More often people misunderstand the difference between being modern and adopting western culture. Modernization is a process that takes place in your mind and changes your thinking process. It is completely different from blindly following or adopting western culture. It is understandable if people wish to modernize themselves. But letting go of your own culture and following somebody else’s without a conscious thought sounds weird. It takes away the uniqueness and exquisite nature and soul of the nation itself. If we won’t value the richness and inimitability of our culture then it will definitely come to an end. It will take away the diversity from the world if all will try to fit in into a single culture.

There is no one way out of this debate. What appears sensible is that you adopt certain ideals of the western culture lacking you find in your own and to which you can relate. But at the same time, you cherish and respect your own culture for its originality, meaning and understand its importance with respect to the world.

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