Should People Prioritize Their Traditional Roots Over Modern Influence?
Imagine waking up one day and realizing that everything that made your culture unique is slowly disappearing—your language, your clothing, your traditional values. Instead, everything is replaced by modern trends, global influences, and a way of life that seems more ‘universal’ than personal. Sounds a bit like a dystopian novel, right? But in many ways, it’s the reality of our rapidly evolving world. The question is, should people prioritize their traditional roots over modern influence? Or is embracing modernity the way forward?
The Beauty of Traditional Roots
Traditional roots are the backbone of identity. They shape who we are, where we come from, and how we interact with the world. Whether it's the intricate art of Japanese tea ceremonies, the vibrant rhythm of South African gumboot dancing, or the depth of indigenous storytelling, culture carries history and meaning that no modern trend can replace.
For example, in many African communities, including the Congolese, traditional weddings were once the heart of family unity. The ceremonies were rich in customs—dowry negotiations, ancestral blessings, and attire that screamed authenticity. Today? Many traditional weddings look more like Hollywood receptions, with couples ditching their own cultural dress for sleek Western gowns and tuxedos. Is it evolution, or is it erasure?
( Ilda Amani represented the Democratic Republic of Congo at Miss Universe 2024, showcasing the traditional Congolese attire called "Mushanana," a vibrant, beadwork-rich garment symbolizing cultural pride.)
Language is another critical part of tradition. In Congo, there was a time when speaking Lingala, Kikongo, or Tshiluba was a source of pride. Now, French dominates so much that children who don’t speak it are seen as ‘uneducated.’ And this isn’t just a Congolese issue—globally, indigenous languages are vanishing at an alarming rate. Should we fight to keep them alive, or accept that language, like culture, evolves?
The Perks of Modern Influence
Now, let’s be real—modern influences aren’t all bad. Without them, we wouldn’t have the technology that connects families across continents, medical advancements that save lives, or global platforms that give minority voices a chance to be heard. Social media, for example, is often criticized for promoting unrealistic lifestyles, but it has also played a major role in reviving lost traditions. Many young people are rediscovering their roots through YouTube documentaries, TikTok cultural challenges, and Instagram pages dedicated to traditional fashion.
Education is another huge advantage of modern influence. Traditional knowledge is powerful, but it isn’t always enough. A Maasai warrior in Kenya might know how to track animals in the wild, but modern education can teach them how to turn that skill into a sustainable business in the tourism industry. The key is balance—preserving traditional knowledge while using modern advancements to elevate it.
Finding the Middle Ground
The truth is, tradition and modernity don’t have to be enemies. Some cultures have found ways to blend both beautifully. Take Japan, for example—one of the most technologically advanced nations in the world, yet deeply rooted in tradition. Kimono-clad women walk the same streets as businessmen in suits, and Shinto shrines stand peacefully beside neon-lit skyscrapers. It’s proof that respecting your roots doesn’t mean rejecting progress.
So, should we prioritize traditional roots over modern influence? Maybe the real question is, how can we blend the two without losing ourselves? Because at the end of the day, culture should not be a thing of the past—it should be a living, breathing part of our present and future.
What do you think? Is your culture evolving in a way you love, or do you feel like it's slipping away?
