From braided hairstyles on catwalks to Bollywood bangers at global music festivals, elements of world cultures now pop up in unexpected places. But when does borrowing from another culture cross the fine line from genuine appreciation into the murky territory of appropriation? The answer is far from simple, and the debate is shaping conversations from fashion houses and food trucks to academic aisles and TikTok trends.
Defining Cultural Appropriation Versus Appreciation
At its heart, cultural appropriation involves taking ideas, customs, or elements from a minority culture—often without permission or proper understanding—usually by individuals from a more dominant group. This often happens without acknowledging the cultural context, meaning, or history behind what’s being used. The result can reduce something sacred or meaningful into a fleeting trend, a costume, or a marketing gimmick.
In contrast, cultural appreciation comes from genuine curiosity, respect, and a willingness to learn about and honour another culture. It requires depth, context, and often exchange—a desire to celebrate differences without stripping away significance or ownership from those to whom the culture belongs. Think of attending a traditional festival after learning about its history, or collaborating with community artisans to tell a story through art.
Why the Distinction Matters in a Connected World
The conversation surrounding cultural borrowing is not new, but globalisation and social media have intensified the stakes. Suddenly, a hairstyle or outfit worn by one influencer in a remote part of the world is instantly visible to millions. This rapid sharing can perpetuate stereotypes or, conversely, ignite global movements to protect cultural integrity.
Appreciation leads to cross-cultural friendships, education, new art forms, and innovation. Appropriation, however, can erode cultural meaning, contribute to cultural erasure, or reinforce old patterns of exploitation. For minority communities whose cultural symbols have historically been mocked, suppressed, or commercialised, appropriation can feel like salt in old wounds.
One striking example appeared during fashion week when a Western designer sent models down the runway in indigenous headdresses—items layered with sacred and ceremonial value. For some viewers, it seemed stylish and exotic; for members of the culture involved, it was disrespectful, even harmful. Stories like this ignite passionate online debates and drive calls for deeper understanding.
How to Spot the Difference: Asking the Right Questions
Navigating the border between appreciation and appropriation often starts by asking: Why am I drawn to this element? Do I understand its cultural context, and have I engaged with the community it comes from? Will my actions contribute to stereotypes, harm, or profit at the expense of others? Or am I educating myself, acknowledging history, and supporting creators within the culture?
For instance, eating sushi or enjoying reggae music isn’t by nature problematic. But donning sacred Native American symbols for a fancy-dress party, or opening a restaurant serving traditional recipes without crediting their origins, rarely passes the fairness test. Consulting with and collaborating on equal terms with culture bearers can transform a potential misstep into a positive exchange.
The Global Society Challenge: Finding Ethical Ways Forward
The reality of modern life is that cultural boundaries are more porous than ever. Migration, travel, digital communities, and the influence of pop culture make cross-cultural exchanges inevitable. The challenge is to ensure these interactions uplift rather than undermine.
Education plays a big part here. Schools, workplaces, and media outlets can promote cultural literacy—encouraging curiosity about, and respect for, traditions and beliefs different from our own. Brands and influencers, ever-aware of their global audience, are increasingly partnering with culture insiders when designing products or curating content.
Some companies have even adopted what’s been called “cultural collaboration,” where artisans or tradition-bearers receive not only acknowledgement but also economic benefit and creative freedom in projects inspired by their heritage. Social media, for all its pitfalls, has also empowered marginalised voices to speak out and set the record straight.
Interesting Facts: When Ethics Meet Everyday Life
Not all examples of cultural borrowing are fraught. Did you know the humble Tic Tac toe game originated in ancient Egypt? Or that the Indonesian batik technique gained UNESCO recognition as an ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ due to both deep tradition and global admiration?
Meanwhile, the Japanese tradition of kintsugi—mending pottery with golden seams—has inspired both Western artists and self-help writers, but genuine appreciation happens when the philosophy behind it, not just the aesthetic, is honoured.
Celebrities, too, are learning from criticism. Singer Adele, for example, listened to feedback after donning Bantu knots at a Notting Hill carnival, sparking both outrage and discussions about intent, context, and the opportunity for learning.
Towards a Culture of Respect
It’s impossible to draw borders around culture, nor should we try—but there’s value in moving through the world with a spirit of respect and curiosity. The next time something from a different culture catches your eye, pause: do a little research, listen to those who know it best, and consider the impact of your choices. Appreciation should always leave a culture richer, not depleted.
Through open conversation and mindful participation, our global society can build bridges rather than barriers—celebrating our vibrant differences while standing firmly on the side of cultural respect and ethical innovation.