Stick it to the Mein: Dujohn Johnson gives lecture on impacts of American culture in China
Megan Conley, Staff Writer
On Monday October 6, NGU’s Dujon Johnson held a lecture about how culture in China is affected by rap music and culture in the United States.
Johnson discussed the affects American influences have on Chinese lifestyles and culture. Rap music became popular in China when Hong Kong students would go to college in London, hear the music there and bring it back to China, he said. However, because of China’s policies, rap was banned for a period of time.
The craze really took off during the 1992 Olympics when Chinese athletes mingled with the Dream Team during the basketball competition, Johnson said.
To this day, many Chinese citizens listen to rap music to learn English, and several successful Chinese rappers have emerged over the past few decades.
Other areas that have been impacted by American culture include Eastern Europe, Russia, Ukraine, Estonia and Latvia., Johnson said These countries mimic the United States and look to the country for inspiration and leadership. However, when ignored some groups may become hostile towards the U.S, he pointed out.
“Part of the cultural gaps you see with ISIS and these other groups is because we will abandon them culturally and politically,” said Johnson.
To some this topic may seem insignificant, but Johnson states this cultural exchange is vitally important for all students.
“The students at NGU need to realize how impactful their presence and their education is abroad and in other countries, particularly China. As an American, as a Christian, how you live does have an impact whether you know it or not. And your lifestyle, your views, your thinking, your education can be transformative. As [it is] the most populous country in the world, we still have a lot of influence in China. Always have had, since the 1800s and probably always will have,” said Johnson.
With just a few small changes, students can work towards making a more positive impact on both China and the rest of the world, he said.
“Take your education seriously so you can learn about the world, then go into the world you have to choose to make that impact. You’re knowledgeable about the world and you’re living in the world and that’s how you can have an impact. If you don’t develop those views, just going about it won’t change it. Take your education seriously here and realize they do have access to the world and to the students here,” said Johnson.
The lecture was held in Hayes Ministry Center, and afterwards the students were served Chinese food by professors Deborah DeCantis and Susan Kahl.
