Whether Tourism is ‘good’ or ‘bad’ has been a topic of discussion and disagreement for several decades. There are two opposing, rather radical points of view: the advocacy platform and the cautionary platform. In this essay both platforms will be explained and illustrated on the example of Sri Lanka.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. The advocacy platform
2.1 Cross-cultural understanding and peace
2.2 Incentive to preserve local culture and heritage
2.3 Social stability through positive economic outcomes
3. The cautionary platform
3.1 Commodification
3.2 Demonstration effect, cultural change and crime
3.3 Local perception of tourism
4. Conclusion
Research Objective and Core Topics
This essay explores the long-standing debate on whether tourism acts as a positive force for development or a destructive influence, using the specific context of Sri Lanka to illustrate the opposing viewpoints of the advocacy and cautionary platforms.
- The economic and socio-cultural benefits of tourism.
- The role of tourism in heritage preservation and cross-cultural exchange.
- Negative social consequences, including commodification and exploitation.
- The impact of tourism on local community perception and social structure.
- The necessity of sustainable management and local involvement.
Excerpt from the Book
Commodification
Ritual dance and music forms are shortened due to the brief time tourists can spend at one attraction, and traditional crafts and artisan skills are modified to appeal to foreign tastes, for example instant cultural shows, fire walking on stage and low quality souvenir items (Ceylon Tourist Board in WTO 2001). In addition to this there is also the danger to heritage sites and religious places caused by ‘over visitation’ (WTO 2001). An angry devotee to a Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka commented that “it will no longer be a place of sanctity …, but a trampling ground for hordes of tourists” (WTO 2001, p.98).
Another problem is the sellout of the country, which includes people, artifacts and natural resources. One argument in this context is the neo-colonialism nature and servility of tourism jobs for indigenous people (Lawton and Weaver 2002). This can be seen as ‘racial exploitation’, with natives as menial workers who are expected to “fulfil the whims of the pampered tourists …, to act compliant and picturesque” (Lawton and Weaver 2002, p.280).
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction: Introduces the two radical perspectives—the advocacy and cautionary platforms—regarding the impact of tourism, set against the backdrop of Sri Lanka's economic reliance on the sector.
2. The advocacy platform: Examines the positive arguments for tourism, highlighting its role in promoting peace, funding heritage preservation, and stimulating economic growth.
3. The cautionary platform: Discusses the negative impacts of tourism, including the commodification of culture, social issues like crime and exploitation, and the shift in local community attitudes.
4. Conclusion: Summarizes that both platforms offer valid points and argues for a balanced approach rooted in sustainable management and local community inclusion.
Keywords
Tourism, Sri Lanka, Advocacy Platform, Cautionary Platform, Economic Impact, Commodification, Cultural Heritage, Sustainable Management, Social Stability, Demonstration Effect, Poverty Alleviation, Local Perception, Neo-colonialism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core subject of this paper?
The paper examines the debate surrounding tourism in Sri Lanka, questioning whether it serves as a beneficial tool for development or a harmful force for the destination.
What are the central thematic frameworks used?
The analysis is structured around two opposing academic platforms: the "advocacy platform," which promotes tourism as a development tool, and the "cautionary platform," which highlights its negative impacts.
What is the primary research goal?
The goal is to provide a balanced evaluation of tourism’s effects, ultimately determining if the benefits for Sri Lanka can outweigh the potential costs.
Which research methodology is applied?
The study utilizes a qualitative literature review and comparative analysis, applying theoretical concepts to real-world examples and data from Sri Lanka.
What is covered in the main section?
The main section details the economic and social benefits promoted by the advocacy platform, followed by a critical assessment of social-cultural problems identified by the cautionary platform.
Which keywords define the work?
Key terms include tourism, Sri Lanka, advocacy and cautionary platforms, cultural heritage, and sustainable management.
How does the author define the "demonstration effect"?
The author defines it as a phenomenon where the local host population begins to imitate the behavior and spending patterns of tourists, which can lead to social stress and changes in community structures.
What does the text conclude about the "Cultural Triangle Development" project?
The project is highlighted as an example of successful heritage conservation where revenue from tourism directly supported the maintenance and restoration of major heritage sites.
What role does the local population play in the author’s conclusion?
The author concludes that tourism is only "good" for Sri Lanka if the local population is actively involved in decision-making and ensures that the tangible benefits reach the community.
- Quote paper
- Anja Strehlow (Author), 2006, Tourism in Sri Lanka, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/132331
