Ethnocentrism - 1047 Words

(Ethnocentrism vs. Cultural Relativism) As a Sociologist, should we practice Cultural Ethnocentrism or Cultural Relativism? We must first understand the two distinct theories regarding perception of outside cultures: Ethnocentrism and Cultural Relativism. Ethnocentrism is judging another culture solely by the values and standards of ones own culture.[1] The ethnocentric individual will judge other groups relative to his or her own particular ethnic group or culture, especially with concern to language, behavior, customs, and religion - these ethnic distinctions and subdivisions serve to define each ethnicity’s unique cultural identity.[2] The logical alternative to ethnocentrism is Cultural relativism, the practice of judging a†¦show more content†¦We live in a rapidly changing world, which is increasingly bringing people of various cultures in closer interaction with each other. This interaction can be positive or negative depending on the level of sensitivity and respect people have for other cultural groups. Negative attitudes towards other cultures and/or ethnic groups arise out of et hnocentrism, while positive attitudes are the result of a culturally relativist approach. If people are going to be successful in todays multicultural, informative society, they will need to develop a culturally sensitive frame of reference and mode of operation. Some of the pros/strengths that Cultural relativism presents are listed below: 1. It encourages respect and tolerance for all cultures and societies. 2. By extension, it advocates for equality among and between cultures 3. It encourages a sense of unity within a culture by maintaining that all are bound by the same rules. 4. It warns us against assuming that all of our own cultural practices are based on some â€Å"absolute rational standard†. 5. It stresses the benefits of keeping an open mind and not rushing to judgment. Cultural relativism suggests that whatever any culture does is acceptable and we must positively judge other cultures’ practices—it is â€Å"right† for them. Who am I to judge differently? Cultural relativism arises out of a concern not to impose our cultural values on other cultures. The problem with believing that all values areShow MoreRelatedEthnocentrism And Cultural Relativism : Ethnocentrism950 Words   |  4 PagesEthnocentrism and Cultural relativism are two concepts similar, but different. Ethnocentrism and Cultural relativism both share a similar practice of trying to understand other beliefs and cultures, but they are both hugely different. See Ethnocentrism is having the belief that one’s country and culture is the best and is the right way to go and that you are right and everyone else is wrong. While Cultural relativism is understanding other cultures, countries, and their beliefs. I believe I am aRead MoreEssay on Ethnocentrism and Cultura l Relativism667 Words   |  3 PagesPlease define and compare and contrast ETHNOCENTRISM and CULTURAL RELATIVISM. Discuss how you have experienced OR witnessed both concepts in our American Society. Ethnocentrism is viewing your own culture as more superior than any other culture, that all other groups are measured in relation to one’s own. Ethnocentrism can lead to cultural misinterpretation and it often distorts communication between human beings. + while cultural relativism is the concept that the importance of a particularRead MoreEthnocentrism : The World s Leading Super Power1067 Words   |  5 PagesWhat is ethnocentrism, the definition is evaluation of other cultures according to preconceptions originating in the standards and customs of one s own culture. Which is broken down to mean the higher valuing of one’s self culture nature and origin compared to others. This can be expressed in action and words, as Americans we exude we are number one. As the world’s leading super power we have become full of our self and almost to the point of narcissism. All over the world people flock to our shoresRead MoreHuman Behavior, Ethnocentrism, And Cultural Relativism1466 Words   |  6 Pagesobjects, institutions and factors that contribute to social change and understanding of human behavior. In studying human behavior, ethnocentrism and cultural relativism will be examined as these concepts expose the authors (McDo nnell 2016). Male domination will also be considered while examining these concepts as an important trait in the Afghan society. Ethnocentrism is an idea supported by a mixture of beliefs that one’s own culture is superior to any other culture. The ideas, foreign ways, andRead MoreEthnocentrism Prevalent in some University Campus1919 Words   |  8 PagesIn my observation of Walla Walla University I have seen ethnocentrism being a prominent part of the campuss culture. Ethnocentrism is a commonly used word in circles where ethnicity, inter-ethnic relations, and similar social issues are of concern. The definition of ethnocentrism is the belief that ones culture and way of life are superior of other groups. This causes judging among different groups and assumptions that there are inferior groups to your own. The roots of the word are ethnic andRead MoreEthnocentrism Is A Basic Attitude Expressing The Belief That One? S Own Culture Essay1731 Words   |  7 PagesETHNOCENTRISM Ethnocentrism is a basic attitude expressing the belief that one?s own ethnic group or one?s own culture is superior to other ethnic groups or cultures, and that one?s cultural standards can be applied in a universal manner. The term was first used by the American sociologist William Graham Sumner (1840?1910) to describe the view that one?s own culture can be considered central, while other cultures or religious traditions are reduced to a less prominent role. Ethnocentrism is closelyRead MoreEssay about Napoleon in Egypt772 Words   |  4 Pagesnot a European provides an alternative viewpoint to the events that happened in Egypt as opposed to the accounts that have been read and taught by Europeans. Although the article is a different perspective it does show strong cultural bias and ethnocentrism towards the French people from the eyes of the Egyptians. The article shows bias in the tone it is written, the unkindness used to mock the French and the incomplete tales of the battles that took place. The writings of Al-Jabarti show significanceRead MoreThe Theory Of Management And Management1294 Words   |  6 Pagestheir purchases. Just as the Contingency Model of leadership depends on two factors (Mitchell et al., 1970; Greer Plunkett, 2003), using a contingency approach with brand purchasing depends on two factors as well. These factors are consumer ethnocentrism, a reflection values in support of local products, and global connectedness, which notes their views and understanding of the world (Strizhakova Coulter, 2015, p. 4). Both factors are similar to the two factors of character and situation whenRead MoreThe Failure of Disney Paris2387 Words   |  10 Pagesdistribution methods were still within Disney’s control. Accommodating these, with the uncontrollable elements after careful consideration could have given them a better start leaving them more prepared for any surprises. 3. What role does ethnocentrism play in the story of EuroDisney s launch? Whenever management relies too heavily on past experience in the home market for guidance abroad, errors proving fatal to the international venture often result. According to Ricks, Fu and Arpan (1974)Read MoreThe Characteristics Of Culture And Culture938 Words   |  4 Pagescultures which are common. Like most animals, we as humans develop a culture that will help us flourish as a species. This essay seeks to explain culture and certain characteristics which are common to all cultures, while also giving an example of ethnocentrism. Culture is an aspect of life that is composed of biological nature, beliefs, attitudes and short and long term consequences of behaviour among much more. All humans maintain culture in order to successfully deal with problems, and to not only