The University of Oxford has changed the name of its Faculty of Oriental Studies

Oxford University has changed the name of its Faculty of Oriental Studies over fears it might be offensive to ethnic minorities.

Scholars say the word ‘oriental’, which many view simply as a byword for ‘of the East’, perpetuates stereotypes and recalls British colonialism.

After a two-year consultation with students and staff, it will now be known as the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies.

It follows a number of name changes at other universities, prompting criticism that vice chancellors are erasing history.

The word ‘oriental’ was first criticised in 1978 by the theorist Edward Said, but many in the general public are unaware that it is controversial.

Academics say it is reminiscent of a time when Western culture portrayed people in the East as servile and exotic.

Professor David Rechter, faculty board chairman, said: ‘The Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies was selected as the new name after an extensive consultation process and I would like to thank the many staff and students who took part in surveys and gave their views.

‘I am confident this change is the right decision. Many considered the word “oriental” to be inappropriate and, while the change will not affect what the faculty researches and teaches, it does better reflect the breadth and diversity of the academic activity in the faculty.’

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11232581/Oxford-bosses-change-Faculty-Oriental-Studies-amid-fears-cause-offense.html

***********************************

My other blogs. Main ones below:

http://edwatch.blogspot.com (EDUCATION WATCH)

http://antigreen.blogspot.com (GREENIE WATCH)

http://pcwatch.blogspot.com (POLITICAL CORRECTNESS WATCH)

http://australian-politics.blogspot.com/ (AUSTRALIAN POLITICS)

http://dissectleft.blogspot.com (DISSECTING LEFTISM)

https://immigwatch.blogspot.com/ (IMMIGRATION WATCH)

https://awesternheart.blogspot.com/ (THE PSYCHOLOGIST)

*******************************