A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What strategy do some critics argue cultural homogenisation represents?

1. A celebration of diversity

2. A declaration of cultural war

3. An effort to unite cultures

4. A process of cultural integration

The correct answer is: A declaration of cultural war

Cultural homogenisation is often viewed by critics as a process that leads to the diminishing of distinct cultural identities in favor of a more uniform global culture, commonly associated with globalization and the spread of Western norms and practices. The notion of cultural warfare stems from the idea that this process is not neutral but rather an aggressive encroachment upon local cultures, whereby dominant cultures impose their values and practices on less dominant ones. This perspective sees cultural homogenisation as a threat, leading to resistance from those who want to preserve their unique cultural identities, thus framing the situation as a form of conflict or “war” between cultures. The other options suggest more positive or neutral receptions of cultural mixing or integration which overlook the critical lens that highlights the potential loss and erasure of diverse cultures due to overpowering influences. Celebrating diversity implies a positive acknowledgment of all cultures maintaining their uniqueness, whereas declaring cultural war conveys the contentious and defensive responses that arise from perceived threats to cultural identity. Efforts to unite cultures might suggest collaboration and mutual respect, which contradicts the idea of cultural homogenisation as a potentially coercive and one-sided process.