The rapid growth of international streaming platforms has sparked an intense debate over whether importing foreign media enriches a nation’s culture. While one school of thought holds that a country’s culture can benefit from this practice, others gravitate towards using domestic products to preserve cultural values. This essay will first examine both sides before presenting my final thoughts.
On the one hand, it is understandable why some advocate for bringing in films and programs from other countries. They say these media tools are often packed with traditional, cultural, and political values that introduce viewers to different lifestyles and global mindsets. Therefore, they claim that this practice can not only dismantle deep-seated cultural stereotypes and prevailing mindsets, but also promote globalization. This is epitomized by the global mainstream success of K-dramas, which not only introduce Korean customs and culinary culture to worldwide audiences but also foster mutual respect between nations.
On the other end of the spectrum, many individuals believe that local products can exert a greater positive influence on a country’s culture. They often emphasize that domestic products serve as a bulwark, shielding cultural elements from being saturated. In their view, although cultural exchange is of paramount benefit, it may compromise certain values that are not welcome. For example, a music genre like Afrobeat, though globally prevalent, may introduce themes or lifestyles against some Vietnamese societal norms if not carefully filtered. Therefore, they believe that prioritizing local films and television programs ensures that cultural heritage is not only preserved but also passed down to posterity in its most authentic form.
Upon weighing both views, I would contend that a combination of both foreign and domestic products should be the preferred choice. In tandem with the fact that it is essential to import foreign media films and programs that align with the norms and culture of the country, fostering local films and television safeguards individuals from cultural homogeneity. Beyond the cultural sphere, hybrid products with a cross-pollination of ideas can not only spur domestic innovation but ultimately elevate the nation’s entertainment industry to a global standard.