THE
FACULTY
SENATE
Senate Document Number 3008S
Date of Senate Approval 02/14/08
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Statement
of Faculty Senate Action:
APC Document 23: Change use of the term Non-Western to:
African,
Asian and Latin American Art History
Effective Date: Fall 2008
1. Delete: On pg. 68, the heading:
Non-Western
Art History
Add: On
pg. 68, in place of deleted entry:
African,
Asian and Latin American Art History
Impact:
References
that are currently designated "Non-Western" should be changed to a
phrase more acceptable and inclusive.
The proposed modification eliminates references to a dated and
questionable use of the phrase, “Non-Western;” that is, it is no longer
acceptable to define art made in Asia, Africa, or Latin America in terms of
“Western” art.
Rationale:
As
scholars begin to question the value of defining diverse cultures in relation
to "Western" developments, the designation “Non-Western” appears less
desirable and no longer appropriate (especially since it privileges “Western”
progress and ideals). As well, a
significant problem is that scholars cannot agree on one definition for
"Western" (thus, for example, the question arises whether Egyptian
art fits in “Western” art [where it has traditionally been placed] or whether
it should be first considered African [and, therefore,
"Non-Western"]).