World Languages Project Abstract
A STUDY OF MODERN FRENCH CULTURE AND THE INFLUENCE OF THE HOMOGENIZING EUROPEAN UNION
Presenter:
Marissa Fierz, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 W. Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; bmwmaf@imsa.edu
Advisor:
Willa Shultz, Foreign Language, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 W. Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; 630-907-5024; willa@imsa.edu
Abstract:
Living in the U.S., overseas from France, Americans cannot truly experience the French culture. Not only is it difficult for Americans to understand and experience French culture, but the ever-present globalization in American culture creates a roadblock for them to define "culture" in general. Thus, this inquiry focuses on the definition of "culture," in addition to an exploration of modern French culture and language via the Internet and various publications. These sources have revealed several elements of French music, fashion, cinema, cuisine, and politics that represent modern French culture. However, to fully understand French culture, the role of the French government and its citizens in promoting and protecting their culture must also be addressed. Unbeknownst to many Americans, the French government has historically fought to uphold its unique culture, along with establishing a Ministry of Culture and laws against specific threats of American customs. In light of France's fairly recent membership to the European Union, French government officials and citizens have had concerns with possible homogenizing influences of the European Union. As a solution to this potential conflict, the French will have to continue their efforts to maintain a uniqueness and unification in culture.