nonWest

Non-West is a term used to describe regions, cultures, and perspectives outside the Western world, typically defined in relation to Europe and North America. In academic and public discourse, it is employed to contrast Western political, cultural, and economic influence with those of other regions, including Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and parts of Latin America. The scope of “non-West” is not fixed; different definitions place varying countries inside or outside the category, and some definitions exclude or include Europe or the Anglosphere depending on context. Because of its breadth, the term can obscure substantial internal diversity and historical variation within regions labeled non-Western.

Historical and intellectual context for the term has varied with shifts in colonialism, decolonization, and global power realignments. It often functions as a counterpoint to Western modernization and globalization narratives, but it can also reinforce a binary or homogenizing view of complex histories and cultures. Critics argue that the label risks essentializing diverse societies and perpetuating a dichotomy between the “West” and everything else.

Alternatives and clarifications commonly used include “Global South,” “Global Majority,” or more precise designations by region or country. In practice, the choice of terminology depends on the disciplinary frame and the specific aspect being discussed, such as politics, philosophy, arts, or development.

See also: Western world; Global South; non-Western philosophy; postcolonial studies.