文化面からみたオーストラリアのアジア・太平洋国家化

抄録

Since colonisation in 1788, Australian culture has had a strong Eurocentric tendency, especially in its political, foreign, and economic policies. Over the last few decades, this tendency has undergone major changes. In the 1960's, the existence of a peculiarly Australian national culture was recognised. In the 1970's, under the Whitlam Government, the Australia Council was established and the meaning of "Australian culture" was re-examined in both academic and popular circles. More recently, there has been a major reconsideration of Australia's geographical position and international role, with the emphasis on multiculturalism and the shift in Australia's political and foreign policies towards the Asia-Pacific region. Today, Australia's identity as an Asia-Pacific nation is being stressed. Significant efforts have been made to introduce local regional cultures to the Australian public. In the late 80's the effort to introduce Australia to Asia-Pacific nations took the forms of "Australia Today" or "Celebrate Australia". Also, in national festivals in Australia, there has been a greater emphasis on cultures of the Asia-Pacific region. A recent example of the latter was the Adelaide Festival in March 1993.In Australian literature, more writers of Asian backgrounds have started to write both in English and in their mother languages. Their works have been published and enjoy good circulation. Among them are Brian Castro, Ding Xiaoqi, and Christopher Cyrill. Many Australians now acknowledge Asia-Pacific influences and elements in Australian society. Asian languages feature prominently as the second language at schools. Ethnic diversity is apparent in movies and TV programs. Everyday contacts, changes in everyday life with more choices in food and clothing, etc. are common place. Asia-Pacific influences seem to have already gained a major foothold in Australian society. This change, although it may have been slow and less remarkable compared with other influences like those of the United States and other Western countries, has proceeded steadily to the extent that now it seems to have gained a strong role in Australian culture. This suggests the possibility of a "East meets West" role for Australia in the international arena, especially in the fields of publication and production of cultural creative activities.