Cultural appropriation is the act of taking or borrowing elements of one culture by members of another culture, typically without permission or proper understanding. This often occurs when a dominant culture adopts aspects of a marginalized or minority culture, without recognizing the significance or history behind these cultural symbols, practices, or traditions. While some might argue that cultural exchange is a natural part of globalization, cultural appropriation is controversial because it is frequently associated with power imbalances, exploitation, and the erasure of the identities of those whose culture is being borrowed.

At its core, cultural appropriation is not about borrowing something for appreciation or respect, but rather taking something from another culture in a way that is exploitative or disrespectful. For example, wearing traditional garments like a kimono or a Native American headdress as fashion statements, without understanding their cultural importance or context, is often cited as an example of cultural appropriation. These items are not just clothes or accessories; they carry deep meanings and are often tied to spiritual, ceremonial, or political significance.

One of the key aspects that distinguishes cultural appropriation from cultural appreciation is power dynamics. The group that appropriates tends to have more social, political, or economic power, while the culture being appropriated is often marginalized. This power imbalance is evident in many cases where elements of minority cultures are commodified and turned into trends or products, while the people from those cultures continue to face oppression, discrimination, and lack of recognition.