Oriental is a term that has been used historically to describe people, objects, and cultures originating from the eastern parts of the world, such as Asia and the Middle East. However, in recent times, the word has come under scrutiny for its perceived negative connotations and associations with outdated and offensive attitudes towards people of Asian descent. This article will explore the reasons why the term Oriental is considered a bad word, and the context in which it has been used historically.

Historical Context

The use of the word Oriental to describe people and cultures of the East has a long history dating back to the 18th century. The term was initially used by European scholars and intellectuals to describe the exotic and unfamiliar cultures they encountered during their travels to Asia and the Middle East. At the time, the word Oriental was not considered offensive, and it was used as a way to distinguish the people and cultures of the East from those of the West.

However, as European colonial powers began to establish colonies and exert their influence over the Eastern world, the term Oriental took on more negative connotations. It became associated with the idea of the East as inferior and backward compared to the West, and it was used to justify colonialism and imperialism. The term was also used to stereotype and dehumanize people of Asian descent, portraying them as exotic, mysterious, and primitive.

Contemporary Context

In contemporary times, the use of the term Oriental to describe people of Asian descent is considered outdated and offensive. The term has been replaced by other more accurate and respectful terms such as Asian or East Asian. There are several reasons why the term Oriental is considered offensive:

It is Eurocentric: The term Oriental is rooted in a Eurocentric view of the world, which places Europe and the West at the center of the world and views other cultures and peoples as inferior. This view is no longer accepted, and the term Oriental perpetuates this outdated and harmful perspective.

It is a generalization: The term Oriental is a generalization that lumps together people from a vast and diverse region with different languages, cultures, and histories. This generalization erases the individuality and complexity of people from these regions and reinforces stereotypes and prejudices.

It is associated with stereotypes: The term Oriental is associated with stereotypes of people of Asian descent as exotic, mysterious, and primitive. These stereotypes are harmful and perpetuate racist attitudes towards people of Asian descent.

It is dehumanizing: The term Oriental reduces people of Asian descent to a category, erasing their individuality and humanity. This reduction to a category reinforces stereotypes and prejudices and perpetuates harmful attitudes towards people of Asian descent.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the term Oriental is considered a bad word because of its historical associations with Eurocentricism, imperialism, racism, and dehumanization. Its use perpetuates harmful attitudes towards people of Asian descent and reinforces stereotypes and prejudices. To be respectful and accurate, it is recommended to use more specific and individualized terms such as Asian or East Asian to refer to people from these regions.