The negative cultural impact of tourism and its implication on sustainable development in Amhara Regional State

AbstractTourism is a modern and growing industry that has a high impact on human life. The interface between culture and tourism is immense, and they have both negative and positive outcomes for one another. Studying the impact of tourism on culture has become a hot topic of discussion among concern...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Gubaye Assaye Alamineh, Jeylan Wolyie Hussein, Yalew Endaweke Mulu, Bamlaku Taddesse
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2023-12-01
Series:Cogent Arts & Humanities
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/10.1080/23311983.2023.2224597
Description
Summary:AbstractTourism is a modern and growing industry that has a high impact on human life. The interface between culture and tourism is immense, and they have both negative and positive outcomes for one another. Studying the impact of tourism on culture has become a hot topic of discussion among concerned scholars. If it is managed properly, it contributes to the preservation and enhancement of cultural diversity and sensitivity. Otherwise, it can destroy the cultures of destination communities. The Amhara region is known for both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, which has been the source of tourists’ attractions. The purpose of this research is to assess communities’ perceptions of the negative cultural impact of tourism on destinations. A mixed-methods research approach, predominantly qualitative research, was used. The findings indicate that tourism has contributed to the commoditization of the culture of society, the erosion of the local communities’ socio-cultural assets, and the production of inauthentic products. Even importing alien cultural products from abroad in mass and presenting them to tourists were identified as negative outcomes. Thus, it informs us that the concerned stakeholders have to take responsibility to minimise its negative impact, which in turn enhances the positive outcome.
ISSN:2331-1983