Final answer:
Cultural imperialism is when powerful Western nations impose their culture and products on less powerful nations, which can lead to the loss of indigenous cultures and traditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cultural imperialism occurs when influential nations of the West impose their products and beliefs on less powerful nations. This concept is evident throughout history, such as during Europe's colonial expansion where European colonizers viewed indigenous populations as needing European governance and cultural practices. In the modern era, instances of cultural imperialism can be seen in the actions of multinational corporations (MNCs) and international aid agencies promoting Western agricultural methods, popular culture, and consumer products over indigenous varieties, traditions, and cultures. This often leads to the overshadowing of local cultures and contributes to a global homogenization or Americanization of diverse societies.
For instance, international aid agencies might introduce non-indigenous plant species that undermine local agricultural practices, while the widespread adoption of Western fast food, music, and fashion trends often comes at the expense of traditional cultural expressions. Moreover, global commerce has allowed products with cultural identifiers from the West to spread internationally, simultaneously carrying the political and social values of those cultures.