Orientalism and its influence on shaping Arab consciousness A critical study of discourse and cultural representations

Abstract

Orientalism is the study of the East from a Western perspective. It began as an academic study, then developed into a tool for cultural and political hegemony. According to Edward Said, these studies represent an ideological discourse that reflects a stereotypical image of the East as a backward entity, thus justifying Western hegemony. This knowledge was used in colonial policies and the media to distort and simplify Arab identity. The Arab Renaissance project confronted this challenge, declaring the necessity of reform and enlightenment. Currently, the role of Arab intellectuals and institutions lies in dismantling these stereotypes and rebuilding an awareness that reflects a true and diverse identity.