Ethnocentric: meaning, definitions and examples
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ethnocentric
[ˌɛθnoʊˈsɛntrɪk ]
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "ethnocentric" in other languages:
🇵🇹 etnocêntrico
🇮🇳 जातीयकेंद्रित
🇩🇪 ethnozentrisch
🇮🇩 etnosentris
🇺🇦 етноцентричний
🇵🇱 etnocentryczny
🇯🇵 エスノセントリック
🇫🇷 ethnocentrique
🇪🇸 etnocéntrico
🇹🇷 etnosentrik
🇰🇷 민족 중심의
🇸🇦 اثنوسنتري
🇨🇿 etnocentrický
🇸🇰 etnocentrický
🇨🇳 民族中心主义的
🇸🇮 etnocentričen
🇮🇸 þjóðernismiðaður
🇰🇿 этноцентристік
🇬🇪 ეთნოცენტრიული
🇦🇿 etnosentrik
🇲🇽 etnocéntrico