How Culture and Power Shape the Landscape
This installment of Crash Course Geography explores the intricate relationship between culture, identity, and the physical environments humans create. Host Alizé Carrère introduces the field of cultural geography, demonstrating how abstract concepts like values, beliefs, and social norms leave a visible imprint on the world—known as the "cultural landscape." Using Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia as a primary case study, the video illustrates how diverse ethnic and religious groups coexist, mix, and influence the architecture, food, and daily life of a city.
The video addresses complex and sensitive themes regarding how cultures interact, distinguishing between natural "acculturation" (mixing like a stew) and forced "assimilation" (erasing identity). It candidly discusses power dynamics, tackling heavy subjects such as the social construction of race, the history of indigenous residential schools, xenophobia, and the plight of stateless nations. By examining how dominant groups can marginalize others, the content provides a geographical framework for understanding social justice issues.
For educators, this resource is invaluable for AP Human Geography, Sociology, and World History curriculums. It moves beyond simple definitions to foster critical thinking about how power shapes space and identity. The video provides clear vocabulary and engaging visual metaphors—like the "cultural canvas"—that help students decode the signals in their own neighborhoods while navigating difficult conversations about racism and historical trauma with empathy and academic rigor.
