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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Is cultural appropriation ever acceptable?

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Topic: "Is cultural appropriation ever acceptable?"

Question: To what extent should individuals be allowed to adopt elements of a different culture for their own purposes, and under what circumstances is this practice acceptable or unacceptable? Discuss your views and provide relevant examples to support your argument.

Model Answer:

Cultural appropriation has become a controversial topic in today's globalized society. The debate revolves around whether individuals should be allowed to adopt elements of another culture for their own purposes, and under what circumstances this practice is acceptable or unacceptable. This essay will argue that cultural appropriation can indeed be acceptable when it involves respecting and celebrating the culture being borrowed from, while acknowledging its historical context. However, it becomes unacceptable when it leads to exploitation, stereotyping, or trivialization of the source culture.

On one hand, cultural appropriation can be seen as a means for individuals to broaden their perspectives and appreciate diverse cultures. For example, incorporating elements from other cuisines into one's diet can be an enriching experience that fosters mutual understanding and respect among different cultures. Similarly, adopting fashion trends or artistic styles from other cultures may contribute to a more inclusive and harmonious global society. In these instances, cultural appropriation can be seen as a positive exchange of ideas and practices.

However, the practice becomes unacceptable when it is done without proper understanding or respect for the culture in question. For instance, wearing traditional attire from another culture, such as Native American headdresses or Chinese qipao dresses, as a fashion statement may be seen as disrespectful and insensitive, especially if the wearer is not of that cultural background. Additionally, misrepresenting or trivializing aspects of a culture for commercial gain can lead to the perpetuation of stereotypes and discrimination against the culture in question.

In conclusion, while cultural appropriation has the potential to promote understanding and appreciation among different cultures, it should be approached with caution. Individuals must ensure that their borrowing of elements from other cultures is done respectfully, while being mindful of the historical context and potential implications. By doing so, we can foster a more inclusive and harmonious global society where cultural exchange is celebrated rather than exploited.

Score: Band 8.0

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