James Bond is a symbol of xenophobia and imperialism
James Bond was created to justify British imperialist rule, and xenophobic undertones have underpinned much of the franchise.
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The Argument
James Bond was originally created during the Cold War, when British influence was heavily waning. Correspondingly, the series was a Trojan Horse for anti-Communist and pro-British Empire ideas.[1]
There have also been several instances of overtly racist portrayals of characters in James Bond movies. For instance, the white actor Joseph Wiseman wore makeup to portray the eponymous half-Chinese character in Dr. No.[2] In a further example of yellowface, in You Only Live Twice, James Bond disguises himself as a Japanese man. These images serve to portray broad conceptions of Asian culture, and perpetuate stereotypical ideas about the people who live there.
James Bond is a weapon of the British Empire, sent out to defeat Communists and other evil-doers. Along the way, non-white people are Othered as unimportant.
Counter arguments
Premises
[P1] James Bond was created in reaction to the Cold War and the British Empire's waning influence.
[P2] James Bond is a symbol of imperialism and anti-Communism.