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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - QuestionShould cultural appropriation be regulated by law?

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Question:"Should cultural appropriation be regulated by law?"

Model Answer:

Cultural appropriation refers to the act of adopting or borrowing elements from a culture that is not one's own. While many argue that this practice should indeed be regulated by law, others believe that it is an essential part of cultural exchange and should be left unregulated. In this essay, I will examine both perspectives to present a balanced view on the matter.

Firstly, those who advocate for legal regulation of cultural appropriation argue that it is an infringement on the rights and dignity of the affected culture. Cultural elements, such as traditional clothing, music, or dance, are deeply intertwined with the identity and history of a community. When these aspects are taken out of context and utilized by outsiders for personal gain, it can lead to the commodification and trivialization of those traditions. For instance, the appropriation of Indigenous designs in fashion has often led to the exploitation of their artistry without proper compensation or recognition for the artists themselves. In such cases, regulating cultural appropriation could protect vulnerable communities from exploitation and ensure that they are fairly compensated for their contributions.

On the other hand, critics of legal regulation argue that it stifles creativity and hinders cross-cultural understanding. They believe that the free exchange of ideas and artistic expressions is crucial for societal progress. By limiting the ways in which cultures can interact with one another, laws against cultural appropriation may inadvertently perpetuate divisions and stereotypes. For example, a non-Indigenous artist may create a painting inspired by Indigenous art as a way to pay tribute or express solidarity, but such a work could be deemed culturally appropriative under strict regulations. This would ultimately discourage artists from engaging with diverse cultural influences, thereby limiting the scope of artistic expression and creativity.

In conclusion, while it is essential to recognize and respect the rights and dignity of all cultures, imposing legal regulations on cultural appropriation may not be the most effective solution. Instead, fostering education and promoting mutual understanding between different cultures can help prevent the misappropriation or trivialization of their traditions without hindering artistic expression. By emphasizing open dialogue and collaboration over strict laws, societies can cultivate a more inclusive and diverse world, where all cultures can coexist harmoniously.

Overall Score: 8.5/9

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