In today’s society, attracting international tourists through cultural uniqueness has become the norm in many countries. Several people are of the opinion that this can significantly lead to cultural erosion, while others argue that cultures can only be preserved by tourism. While there are valid arguments on both sides of the debate, I am still in favor of the latter.
On the one hand, it is understandable why cultural identity can be diluted or even erased by tourism. This is because it provides indigenous people with opportunities to expose themselves to different cultural backgrounds. This exposure can alter locals, traditional values, and cultural norms, potentially contributing to the loss of cultural identity due to the high risk of cultural assimilation. For instance, in Viet Nam, many young people currently opt for Western attires instead of Ao Dai in traditional Tet holidays. Such situations also increased in countries like Korea, Mexico, and German, where Western lifestyles often dominate traditional norms. This example demonstrates how dangerous tourism is in terms of its impact on cultural roots.
Despite this severe demerit, I still believe that tourism serves as a catalyst for conserving cultural heritage, as it allows countries to generate revenue created by tourists’ activities. This financial resource can be utilized effectively for cultural programs to preserve and promote culture on a global scale, potentially fostering cultural understanding and appreciation. A pertinent example can be seen in Japan, where the government provides financial assistance to local artisans and craftsmen to ensure the continuation of traditional Japanese crafts like pottery, textile arts, and lacquerware, which are a crucial element of national culture. This consequently results in cultural conservation and promotion.
In conclusion, while tourism poses several threats to cultures, such as cultural erosion or dilution, I am convinced that it is essential for cultural preservation because of its crucial role in creating necessary profit which can be used for sustaining and fostering culture.