Colonial mentality, in simple terms, refers to the mindset and attitudes of people who have been colonized or influenced by a colonial power. This mentality is characterized by a deep admiration and preference for Western culture and practices, while simultaneously devaluing and belittling one’s own culture and traditions. Despite the decolonization efforts in the past century, colonial mentality still persists in modern society, shaping people’s beliefs, choices, and actions.

One of the most evident examples of colonial mentality in modern society is the glorification of Western beauty standards. This is seen in the widespread use of skin-whitening products in Asian countries, such as India, Philippines, and Thailand. The belief that fair skin is more attractive and desirable is deeply rooted in colonial history, where the colonizers, mostly Europeans, were perceived as superior due to their lighter complexion. This preference for fair skin has led to a multi-billion dollar industry, promoting the idea that anything other than light skin is not beautiful. This mentality not only perpetuates harmful beauty standards but also reinforces the notion that one’s own features and complexion are inferior.

Another manifestation of colonial mentality can be seen in the education system. In many post-colonial countries, the curriculum is heavily influenced by Western ideologies, and the education system itself is modeled after the Western system. This leads to the devaluation of indigenous knowledge and perspectives, as they are often portrayed as primitive or inferior. For instance, in the study of history, the focus is primarily on Western civilizations, while the rich and diverse histories of non-Western cultures are overlooked. This not only perpetuates the idea of Western superiority but also erases the cultural identities and contributions of indigenous communities.

The influence of colonial mentality can also be seen in the consumption patterns of society. The desire for Western products and brands is often prioritized over locally-made goods. This creates a sense of inferiority towards one’s own products and a belief that foreign goods are of better quality. In some cases, this leads to the loss of traditional crafts and industries, as they are unable to compete with the mass-produced goods of Western companies. This not only affects the economy but also erodes the cultural identity and sense of pride in one’s heritage.

Moreover, the media plays a significant role in perpetuating colonial mentality in modern society. The portrayal of Western culture as glamorous, sophisticated, and successful, while non-Western cultures are often portrayed as backward, uncivilized, and in need of assistance, further strengthens the belief that Western culture is superior. This is especially evident in the representation of minority groups, where Western ideals of beauty and success are emphasized, leading to the internalization of these standards and beliefs.

In conclusion, colonial mentality is deeply ingrained in modern society and manifests in various forms, including beauty standards, education, consumption patterns, and media representation. It not only perpetuates the idea of Western superiority but also erodes the cultural identity and self-esteem of non-Western cultures. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize and challenge colonial mentality, and promote the celebration and preservation of diverse cultures and identities.