Analysis of Indo-chic... and Arabs, Islam, and the Dogmas of the West

Leilani Adame
913930034
5/8/17

Indo-chic: Late Capitalist Orientalism and Imperial Culture:

Maira discusses the issue of U.S. youth culturally appropriating the Indian culture though mean of using henna, bindis, and saris as fashion trends. This is an issue because many Indian women are confound to this specific "style" where it is required for them to wear these things based on patriarchy and religion. Partygoers and ravers create a capitalist production by making their culture and religious values a trend. This ties into other articles that we have read where ethnic authenticity is the topic of discussion. As Maira states "indo-chic is tied political and economic dimensions that link nations to globalization and capitalist imperial culture". This appears to be true for most trends that are culturally appropriating. An example of this is during cinco de mayo caucasians dress up in traditional Mexican clothing "pretending to be Mexican" not considering that earlier in the year they voted for Donald Trump.


Arabs, Islam, and the Dogmas of the West:

Said says that there are four possible dogmas. The first is the difference between the West and the Orient. In this case the West is the superior to the Orient, The second is the abstractions about the Orient. The third is the Orient is eternal and incapable of defining itself. The fourth is that the Orient should either be feared or controlled. In nearly all senses the Orient seems to be looked down upon.