"Dance floor imperialism" refers to the phenomenon observed at social gatherings where a designated space for dancing exists. In these settings, the individuals on the dance floor often develop a deep intolerance for those who choose not to partake in dancing. Fuelled by a kind of mania, these dancers become relentless in their efforts to pressure non-dancers to join them, creating an environment where the desire to conform to the dominant dancing culture becomes almost inevitable. Dance floor imperialism manifests as an explicit expectation for everyone to participate, and non-dancers often find themselves succumbing to the relentless persuasion, inadvertently surrendering their autonomy on the dance floor.
The atmosphere on the dance floor was charged with dance floor imperialism as enthusiastic dancers actively sought to recruit non-dancers into their rhythmic domain.