Introduction

This chapter addresses conceptual questions about cultural appropriation. First, a descriptive conception of cultural appropriation is defended. Based on this descriptive account, not all cases of cultural appropriation are necessarily wrongful. Second, the chapter discusses the contentious distinction between cultural outsiders and cultural insiders that is at the core of the idea of cultural appropriation. Cultural group membership, it is argued, should be understood in a non-essentialist and flexible way. Third, it is important to acknowledge that cultural practices themselves cannot always be easily identified as belonging to any specific culture in a meaningful way. Finally, the outline of the book is presented.