A way of seeing that imagines, reduces, and distorts perceptions of Arab peoples and cultures as compared to those of the Western world is known as:

The concept you are referring to is known as "Orientalism." This term was popularized by scholar Edward Said in his book of the same name, published in 1978. Orientalism describes the Western perspective that often views Eastern societies—particularly Arab and Islamic cultures—through a lens that emphasizes stereotypes, exoticism, and a sense of superiority. This perspective can lead to a distorted understanding of these cultures, reducing them to simplistic images and narratives that ignore their complexities and nuances.

Said argued that Orientalism is not just a field of study but also a powerful cultural discourse that shapes how Western societies view and interact with the East. Through literature, art, and academic institutions, Orientalism contributes to a colonial mindset that often frames Arab peoples and cultures as "the other," contrasting them with a purportedly rational, civilized West. This notion affects geopolitical relations and cultural exchanges, highlighting the need for a more nuanced and respectful understanding of different cultures.