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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Discuss whether or not cultural appropriation should be considered a m of racism.

IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1710828691

Task: Discuss whether or not cultural appropriation should be considered a form of racism.

Model Answer:
In today's globalized world, the exchange and blending of cultures have become more commonplace than ever. However, this phenomenon has also given rise to a contentious issue known as "cultural appropriation." The practice of borrowing elements from one culture by members of another is often viewed as an infringement on the rights and dignity of the original culture. This essay will argue that cultural appropriation should indeed be considered a form of racism, as it perpetuates stereotypes, disrespects cultural identities, and fosters power imbalances between cultures.

Firstly, cultural appropriation often leads to the perpetuation of stereotypes. When individuals from a dominant culture adopt symbols or practices from a marginalized one, they may inadvertently reinforce harmful stereotypes about that culture. For example, the wearing of Native American headdresses by non-Native people at music festivals not only trivializes a sacred object but also perpetuates the misconception that Native Americans are primitive and exotic. This type of cultural appropriation can have long-lasting effects on the perception of minority cultures, which is undoubtedly a form of racism.

Secondly, cultural appropriation disrespects the cultural identities of indigenous peoples. When elements of one culture are taken out of context and used as mere fashion statements or decorative items, they lose their original significance and meaning. This commodification of cultural symbols is deeply disrespectful to the people whose traditions have been co-opted. The trivialization of another culture's identity is a clear manifestation of racism, as it devalues the richness and diversity of human cultures.

Lastly, cultural appropriation can contribute to power imbalances between dominant and marginalized cultures. Those in positions of power and influence often appropriate aspects of minority cultures without giving due credit or acknowledging their origins. This practice reinforces existing power dynamics by perpetuating the notion that the dominant culture is superior or more innovative than others. This hierarchy is a clear reflection of racism, as it privileges one group's cultural practices over another's.

In conclusion, cultural appropriation should indeed be considered a form of racism due to its ability to reinforce stereotypes, disrespect cultural identities, and perpetuate power imbalances between cultures. Recognizing and addressing this issue is crucial for fostering mutual respect and understanding among different cultures, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and inclusive world.

Score: Band 9

Task 2 (Essay) Writing Criteria:
- Task Response: Addresses all parts of the question/task prompt and provides a clear response.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is logically structured, with each paragraph focusing on a single main idea that flows coherently from one to the next, ensuring smooth transitions between ideas.
- Lexical Resource: Vocabulary is accurately and appropriately chosen to convey complex ideas in an accurate manner.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Complex sentence structures are used effectively and accurately, with few grammatical errors.

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