Ethnocentric Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ethnocentric
[หษฮธnoสหsษntrษชk ]
Definition
viewpoint belief
Ethnocentric refers to the belief in the superiority of one's own ethnic group or culture, often resulting in the evaluation of other cultures from the perspective of one's own. This perspective can lead to prejudice and discrimination against those who are perceived as different.
Synonyms
bigoted, culturally biased, narrow-minded.
Examples of usage
- His ethnocentric views made it difficult for him to appreciate other cultures.
- The ethnocentric attitude of the colonizers negatively impacted the indigenous populations.
- Ethnocentric beliefs can hinder international cooperation and understanding.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Sociology
- Ethnocentrism can lead to misunderstanding and conflict between different cultures, as it often fosters prejudice.
- In social psychology, it is recognized as a common cognitive bias, influencing how individuals perceive and interact with others.
Cultural Studies
- Many anthropologists study ethnocentrism to promote cultural relativism, which encourages understanding cultures on their own terms.
- Historical examples include colonialism, where one culture imposed its values on others, often marginalizing local practices.
Psychology
- Psychological studies show that ethnocentric individuals may feel a heightened sense of identity but can also experience more loneliness.
- It affects interpersonal relationships, causing ethnocentric individuals to struggle with empathy towards others from different backgrounds.
Globalization
- In an increasingly interconnected world, ethnocentrism poses challenges in international relations and global cooperation.
- Efforts to combat ethnocentrism are crucial in multicultural societies, encouraging respect and appreciation for diversity.
Origin of 'ethnocentric'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'ethnos', meaning 'nation' or 'people' in Greek, with 'centric', meaning 'centered around'.
- It was first used in English around the 19th century to describe cultural bias.
The term 'ethnocentric' is derived from the combination of 'ethno-', meaning 'nation' or 'people,' and 'centric', meaning 'centered around'. It was first introduced in the early 20th century, particularly in the context of anthropology and the study of different cultures. The concept suggests that individuals often place their own culture at the center of their worldview, interpreting other cultures in relation to their own standards and values. These ideas gained significant traction in social sciences, especially during the post-colonial period, highlighting how such perspectives can lead to harmful stereotypes and a lack of cultural sensitivity. Over time, critiques of ethnocentric viewpoints emerged, advocating for cultural relativism, which promotes understanding and appreciation of different cultures without bias.