Orientalize for Dummies

Orientalize is a word we use to describe a process where we perceive or present something, like a culture or a person, as being from the Orient or having qualities that are often associated with the Orient. Now, when we say "Orient," we're talking about the countries or regions in East Asia, such as China, Japan, and Korea.

So, when we use the word "orientalize," it means that we are emphasizing those characteristics that are typically attributed to the cultures of the East, such as exoticism, mystery, or maybe even stereotypes. It's like shining a spotlight on these elements and focusing on them in a way that may not be fair or accurate.

Imagine you have a favorite toy at home, maybe a doll or a stuffed animal. Now, imagine if someone only saw that toy and assumed that everything about you or your family was just like that toy. They might think that because you have that doll, you only like dolls, you eat dolls for dinner, and you even speak doll language! Of course, we know that's not true. It's just one small part of who you are, and defining you based on that toy would be unfair and, quite frankly, ridiculous.

In the same way, when we "orientalize" something or someone, we are taking a small part of their identity, their culture, and making it seem like that's all there is to them. We're oversimplifying and not fully appreciating the richness, diversity, and complexity of the person or culture in question. It's like looking at a beautiful painting and only focusing on one tiny dot instead of appreciating the whole picture.

It's important to remember that just like you, each culture and each person is unique and has a lot more to offer than what meets the eye. So, when we use the word "orientalize," we want to be cautious and make sure we are not reducing someone or something to stereotypes or generalizations. It's about embracing and celebrating diversity and avoiding judgment based on preconceived notions.

So, in a nutshell, "orientalize" means to present or perceive something or someone from the East in a way that emphasizes stereotypes or oversimplifies their identity, missing out on the larger picture of their culture or individuality.