Orientalism and International Engagement

Guiding Question How do we understand the concept of “Otherness” and what effects does that understanding have on our learning and service?

Learning Objectives Identify the main themes in Edward Said’s “Orientalism” Consider international service and engagement in light of Orientalism

What is Orientalism? Considering Orientalism, what questions do you think those who engage in service internationally ought to consider? Choose one question to ask yourself about your own experiences in international service or research. Freewrite for 5 minutes.

“They Come in the Name of Helping”

“Work to change the way our government and corporations behave themselves abroad. While these steps are less gratifying than flying to Africa to build latrines in a village, they will make it easier for Africans to pursue their own hopes and aspirations for their countries and continent. However, in my experience, Westerners are more willing to donate money to development than to scrutinize our country’s role in perpetuating global poverty” Quoted from: They Come in the Name of Helping, a film by Peter Brock

Following from our discussion on Orientalism, what do you think those who engage in service internationally ought to consider?