the most toxic form of discrimination

Summary

The video script explores the dichotomy of 'elegant' and 'vulgar' labels, using French pop singer Aya Nakamura as a case study. It delves into the concept of symbolic violence by Pierre Bourdieu, illustrating how societal norms and cultural practices marginalize certain groups. Aya, despite her international fame, faces criticism in France for her perceived vulgarity and non-conformity to bourgeois standards. The script challenges viewers to consider the intersection of discrimination and the internalization of hegemonic norms.

Takeaways

• 📚 The script discusses the connotations of the words 'elegant' and 'vulgar', highlighting their impact on social perception.
• 🌐 'Vulgar' originates from the Latin 'vulgaris' meaning 'of the people', yet it's now used negatively, often targeting women deemed disrespectful.
• 🎤 Aya Nakamura, a French-Malian singer, is frequently labeled as 'vulgar' despite her international success and popularity.
• 🏆 Aya's music, which often incorporates Parisian suburb slang, is criticized by some for being hard to understand, exemplifying symbolic violence through linguistic bias.
• 📈 The script ties Aya's treatment to Pierre Bourdieu's concept of 'symbolic violence', showing how social norms and cultural practices can dominate and control.
• 🌍 Aya's music and persona challenge the bourgeois norms, representing the dynamic and contextual nature of language, in contrast to the perceived 'purity' of standard French.
• 👩‍💼 The script points out the expectation for Black French artists to show eternal gratitude for their success, hinting at a double standard not applied to white French artists.
• 🖋️ Aya's confidence and assertiveness are perceived negatively, contrasting with the submissive and thankful demeanor expected from Black women in the public eye.
• 🎭 Symbolic violence is not just external; it also involves internalization, where Aya herself acknowledges the perceived hierarchy of language.
• 🌟 Despite criticism, Aya's performance at the Olympic ceremony represents a triumph over societal and symbolic barriers, showcasing diversity and influence.

Q & A

What is the origin of the word 'vulgar' and how has its meaning evolved?

The word 'vulgar' comes from the Latin root 'vulgaris,' which means 'of the people,' 'ordinary,' or 'common.' Interestingly, what was once a term to describe something as being common has now evolved into an insult, often used to target women who are perceived as not respectable.

Why is Aya Nakamura often labeled as 'vulgar'?

Aya Nakamura is often labeled as 'vulgar' due to the symbolic violence exerted through social norms, values, and cultural practices. This judgment comes from a place of bourgeois expectations and a misunderstanding of her music and persona, which do not align with the traditional French language and bourgeois norms.

What is symbolic violence and how does it relate to Aya Nakamura's experience?

Symbolic violence refers to subtle and often unnoticed forms of domination and control exerted through social norms, values, and cultural practices. Aya Nakamura experiences symbolic violence through the criticism and misunderstanding of her music, language, and persona, which are seen as not conforming to the 'norms' of the French language and bourgeois ideals.

How does Aya Nakamura's music reflect her cultural background?

Aya Nakamura's music reflects her cultural background through the use of language and themes that resonate with her Parisian suburban roots. She incorporates slang and local dialects from the Parisian suburbs into her songs, which are a mix of French and local languages, reflecting the dynamic and contextual nature of language in her community.

What is the significance of Aya Nakamura's performance at the Olympic ceremony?

Aya Nakamura's performance at the Olympic ceremony is significant as it represents a form of cultural recognition and a challenge to the symbolic violence she has faced. Despite the backlash from those who view her as vulgar or not representative of French culture, her presence at such a high-profile event is a testament to her influence and the acceptance of her art by a broader audience.

How does the concept of 'abstraction' play a role in the criticism of Aya Nakamura's music?

The concept of 'abstraction' is used by critics to argue that Aya Nakamura's music lacks depth and does not adhere to the bourgeois norms of artistic expression. Critics expect a certain level of abstraction from artists, implying that only those who have a deep understanding of the language and culture can challenge the norm in a meaningful way.

What is the role of the French language in the perception of Aya Nakamura's music?

The French language plays a central role in the perception of Aya Nakamura's music. Critics often judge her work based on their understanding of 'proper' French, which she does not always use. This leads to accusations that her lyrics are hard to understand or lack meaning, reflecting a bias towards a purer or more abstract form of expression.

How does Aya Nakamura challenge the norms of the French language in her music?

Aya Nakamura challenges the norms of the French language by incorporating slang, local dialects, and creole influences into her music. This blending of languages and the use of 'non-standard' French is a form of cultural expression that resonates with her audience but is often criticized by those who prioritize a more traditional or abstract use of language.

What is the impact of colonialism on the perception of language and culture in France?

Colonialism has a lasting impact on the perception of language and culture in France, as it imposed a hierarchy where the French language and culture were seen as superior to local dialects and traditions. This legacy continues to influence how artists like Aya Nakamura are judged, as their work may be seen as a deviation from the 'pure' French language and culture.

How does Aya Nakamura's persona and public image contribute to the symbolic violence she experiences?

Aya Nakamura's persona as a confident, black woman challenges traditional Western beauty standards and bourgeois expectations, leading to criticism and judgment. Her public image, which includes her appearance, the way she speaks, and her behavior, is scrutinized and often deemed vulgar or inappropriate, reflecting the intersection of racism, sexism, and classism in symbolic violence.

What is the concept of internalization as it relates to symbolic violence?

Internalization in the context of symbolic violence refers to the process by which individuals adopt the dominant norms and values as their own, even when these standards are used to oppress them. Aya Nakamura's use of the term 'normal' to describe standard French implies that she has internalized the idea that her way of speaking is inferior, highlighting the insidious nature of symbolic violence.