Part 5/7:
A significant point in the critique is the role of propaganda. It is suggested that regimes like Saudi Arabia use carefully curated images—such as allowing women to drive—as a means of modernizing their image and gaining acceptance in Western eyes. Critics argue that such gestures are superficial, serving the political interests of regimes eager to improve their international standing without making substantial reforms.
The speaker emphasizes that Western consumers of media should be cautious about accepting surface-level narratives. They imply that influential voices, including Whitney, might be unwitting or willing accomplices in perpetuating these regimes’ attempts to appear progressive, even when fundamental rights and freedoms remain elusive for many.