Western dominance refers to the political, economic, cultural, and military influence exerted by Western countries, particularly those in North America and Western Europe, over global affairs. This influence has historically shaped international norms, trade practices, and cultural exchanges, often prioritizing Western values and systems. The concept also encompasses the historical context of colonialism and Imperialism, where Western powers expanded their reach, impacting societies around the world. In contemporary discussions, it raises questions about globalization, power dynamics, and the rise of non-Western nations.
The Western order refers to the political, economic, and social systems that have developed in Western nations, particularly since the end of World War II. It is characterized by democratic governance, market economies, and a commitment to human rights and the rule of law. This order has been shaped by institutions like the United Nations, NATO, and the European Union, which promote cooperation and collective security among Western countries. However, it faces challenges from rising powers and shifts in global dynamics that question its dominance and values.
The primary goal of movements and figures advocating for the removal of Western ideas from Muslim nations often stems from a desire to preserve traditional Islamic values and cultural identity. This perspective is commonly associated with various Islamist groups and leaders who argue that Western influence undermines religious and social norms. Notable examples include figures like Ayatollah Khomeini in Iran, whose revolution aimed to establish an Islamic state free from Western imperialism and secularism. Such movements seek to promote a return to what they perceive as authentic Islamic principles and practices, resisting globalization and Western cultural dominance.
The West plays a dominant role in shaping world culture primarily due to its historical economic and political influence, particularly during the colonial and industrial eras. The spread of Western values, ideas, and technologies through globalization, media, and the internet has further amplified this impact. Additionally, Western education and cultural institutions often set global standards, making Western cultural norms more accessible and influential worldwide. This dominance is also reinforced by the soft power of Western nations, which promotes their culture through diplomacy, entertainment, and technology.
Western nations were able to control parts of China in the 1800s primarily due to military superiority and the imposition of unequal treaties following conflicts like the Opium Wars. These treaties forced China to cede territory, grant extraterritorial rights, and open up ports to foreign trade. Additionally, internal strife, such as the Taiping Rebellion, weakened China's ability to resist foreign intervention. This combination of external pressure and internal instability facilitated Western dominance over various regions of China during that period.
western hemisphere
Control of the Western Mediterranean; control of the Western Mediterranean.
For dominance of the Western Mediterranean.
Roman dominance of the Western Mediterranean.
Dominance of the Western Mediterranean.
A struggle for dominance in the Western Mediterranean.
They competed for dominance of the Western Mediterranean.
Competing for dominance of the Western Mediterranean.
For dominance of the Western Mediterranean.
For dominance of the Western Mediterranean.
For dominance in the Western Mediterranean.
It was a struggle for dominance of the Western Mediterranean.
Maintaining its trading dominance in the Western Mediterranean.