Cultural Imperialism Creating Harm

There are many obvious forms of cultural imperialism that take place in the instances of McDonald's and Starbucks, however, much more harmful than food are the primarily American cigarette companies providing other countries with the means to engage in this deathly habit. Perhaps the most disturbing case of an American brand of cigarette abroad is that of American Spirit Cigarettes. These cigarettes made in America are sold in both Canada and parts of Europe, and through their advertising embody American ideals and ways of life. This company uses the fact that the products are manufactured in America to sell their product. By creating images that reinforce already existing stereotypes of our culture, populations in other countries find the cigarettes exotic and special.

The package on the cigarettes themselves depict a Native American which leads consumers to think about the origins of the American culture and country. In addition, the claim that these cigarettes are organic and natural lead buyers to believe this American product is of higher quality than others.

This advertisement is one of the most disturbing and persuasive of all. Many of the American values and characteristics of our democracy and culture are reinforced and stated through the writing in this advertisement. Foreigners who see these cigarettes and have a positive view of America and see the country in an uplifting light may want to buy the cigarettes because they will feel more "American" by smoking them. Unfortunately, America has taken over in many ways in other countries even going to so far as to provide a deadly product over seas. Hopefully people from other countries will see through the advertising campaigns and realize that no matter how healthy or harmless this product may seem they ultimately cause many health problems and complications and can ultimately lead to death.