The whole concept of European culture as a cornucopia from…
““The whole concept of European culture as a cornucopia from which things are freely given is misleading. It does not take a specialist in anthropology to see that the European “give” is always highly selective. We never give any native people under our control – and we never shall, for it would be sheer folly as long as we stand on the basis of our present Realpolitik – the following elements of culture: 1. The instruments of physical power: fire-arms, bombing planes, poison gas, and all that makes an effective defence or aggression possible 2. We do not give out instruments of political mastery [i.e. sovereignty or voting rights] 3. We do not share with them the substance of economic wealth and advantages…. Even when under indirect economic exploitation… we allow the native a share of the profits, the full control of the economic organization remains in the hands of Western enterprise. 4. We do not admit them as equals to Church, Assembly, school, or drawing room… Full political, social and even religious equality is nowhere granted.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Malinowski critiques the myth of European generosity, asserting that Europe selectively withholds power, political, economic, and social resources from colonized peoples.
In simple terms: Europe pretends to share culture but keeps power for itself.
Key Takeaway
Challenge the narrative of cultural generosity.
Themes
colonialism
power
inequality
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analysis
political
When to use this quote
- Policy analysis
- educational curricula
- human rights advocacy
- international relations
Key Concepts
Postcolonial theory
cultural hegemony
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we promote equitable cultural sharing?
A Different Perspective
What are examples of genuine cultural exchange?