In exploring the parodic examples presented by Wainana (2005) in "How to Write about Africa" and Miner (1956) in "Body and Ritual Among the Nacirema," as well as the TEDTalks by Ngozi in "The Danger of a Single Story" and Bart-Williams in "Change Your Channel," I have come to recognize and confront my own stereotypes and stigmatizations.

Reading Wainana's satirical guide on how to depict Africa in literature, I realized how prevalent negative stereotypes about the continent are perpetuated through Western narratives. The portrayal of Africa as a homogenous, exotic land rife with poverty and conflict reflects a narrow and biased perspective that I have, unfortunately, internalized to some extent.

Similarly, Miner's anthropological study of the Nacirema people, which is actually a satirical critique of Western cultural practices, highlights how easily we can misinterpret and distort information when viewing cultures different from our own. It made me reflect on how my own cultural biases and preconceived notions can lead to the misrepresentation of others.

Watching Ngozi's TEDTalk on the danger of a single story and Bart-Williams' presentation on changing our perspectives further emphasized the importance of recognizing and challenging these stereotypes. They reminded me that our assumptions and perceptions can contribute to the creation of "otherness" by simplifying complex identities into narrow categories.

Through this exploration, I have learned to critically examine my own assumptions and prejudices. I now understand that by succumbing to stereotypes and stigmatizations, I inadvertently contribute to the perpetuation of harmful narratives that marginalize and dehumanize others. Moving forward, I am committed to challenging these biases and engaging in more inclusive and empathetic ways of thinking and interacting.

Reference list

Bart -Williams,T.(2020).TEDxYOUTH@SILExcellence.https//www.ted.com/tedx/events/40910

Miner,H.(1956).Body ritual among the Nacirema.American Anthropologis,58(3),503-507

Ngozi.C.(SSpeaker).(2009)The danger of a single story.https//www.ted.com/talks/Chimamnda_ngozi_adichie_the danger_of_a_single_story

Wainaina.B.(2005).How to write about Africa.Grant,92.