Quote:
Originally Posted by Agema
Said was making a complaint about Western behaviour when he termed Orientalism, but a more impartial view I think should accept that the reverse also exists, and indeed Occidentalism has also been coined. Hence I'd argue "Orientalism" is a specific form of a much wider truth and in that sense it's not special, nor possibly even a useful term.
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Yep, pretty much I'm saying the same thing. I'd take it a step farther however: because it was specifically developed against the west it was an ideological weapon against the west - and this is how it was used from africa to iran.
Even today this idea reverberates - not too long ago I often discussed things with an Omani: we differed on the question of Palestine. Unable to factually defeat a position she retreated to - you can't understand - you're not Omani.
The truth I think of the matter rests in Said's final admission that he had no interest in an accurate portrayal of the east or islam. If we remove that fig leaf, then the real purpose of Said's work is criticism of the West.
Its why I have a hard time reconciling fervent post colonialism in occidental countries with patriotism. If you are fervently critical why not go somewhere where post colonialism and patriotism can coincide.