local cultures may come under threat as result of spread of other cultures through globalisation
- can risk being diluted / lose signifance or distinctiveness
- people become more immersed in global cultural products / lifestyles → the practice of local cultures / ethnic traditions may become less widespread
- adoption of popular and consumer culture could lead to their replacement
- dilution of local cultures → might lead to some of these cultures being forgotten over time
- people may lose rich meanings + ways of life connected with these cultures
- younger generations grow up under cultural influences of globalisation → might face difficulties relating to older generations who may be more deeply rooted in local & ethnic cultures.
- vice versa, old people may not have same appreciation for popular and consumer culture that appeals to youngers
Example
Here’s Bhutan’s cultural dilution in point form: Bhutan was known for preservation efforts
- Influence of tourism and media – Rising tourist numbers and exposure to global platforms bring Western ideas, clothing, and entertainment into Bhutan.
- Shift in clothing habits – Younger Bhutanese, especially in urban areas, wear jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers instead of the traditional gho and kira when not required by law.
- Changing food preferences – Foreign cuisines and packaged foods are becoming more common, reducing reliance on traditional dishes.
- Language and music trends – English and Hindi (via Indian TV/films) are more popular among youth, leading to less use of Dzongkha or traditional folk songs.
- Urban lifestyle changes – Western consumer goods, technology, and work culture are influencing daily life, slowly diluting rural and traditional practices.
Influx of global influences and cultures from around the world → may replace local cultures / result in gradual loss of cultures, along with understanding of their significance
there are also efforts to preserve local cultures
- local cultures may absorb some foreign influences + incorporate elements of their own cultures to create new cultural products that reflect local identity
- globalisation can also offer opp to enable spread of local culture overseas.
- use of digital tools + SM
- can prevent loss