Communication and cultural domination : USA-Latin American case

Abstract

This article examines the concept of cultural imperialism applied to the relationship between the United States and Latin America, arguing that communication plays a decisive role in sustaining this domination and that no genuine two-way flow of information exists between the two regions. It analyzes the mechanisms of US economic and political imperialism as a foundation for cultural imperialism, and reviews the role of international news agencies, advertising firms, and exporters of television, film, and print media content in transmitting US cultural influence. The article documents patterns of bias and omission in US news reporting on Latin America, discusses covert political communication operations—including CIA activities in Chile—and considers the role of Latin American ruling elites in facilitating this pattern of external domination.