ETHNOCENTRICITY Meaning and
Definition
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Ethnocentricity is a term that refers to the belief or attitude held by individuals or groups that their own ethnic or cultural group is superior or the center of the world, while disregarding or devaluing other ethnic or cultural groups. It is the practice of evaluating or judging other cultures or societies based on the standards or values of one's own culture, assuming that one's own cultural norms are superior.
This concept is rooted in a biased and narrow perspective, as it often leads to the belief that one's own group is inherently better or more important than others. It manifests in various ways such as stereotypes, discrimination, prejudice, or a sense of cultural superiority.
Ethnocentricity can hinder intercultural understanding and appreciation, as it can result in a lack of appreciation for the diversity and uniqueness of different cultures. It can create barriers to effective communication and cooperation between individuals or groups from different backgrounds.
It is essential to distinguish between ethnocentricity and cultural pride or identity. Cultural pride or identity involves an appreciation and celebration of one's own cultural heritage without denigrating or dismissing other cultures. Ethnocentricity, on the other hand, involves a narrow-minded perspective that tends to exclude or belittle cultural differences. It is an aspect that needs to be addressed and challenged in order to foster a more inclusive and harmonious multicultural society.
Common Misspellings for ETHNOCENTRICITY
Etymology of ETHNOCENTRICITY
The etymology of the word "ethnocentricity" can be traced back to two main components: "ethno-" and "-centricity".
- "Ethno-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "ethnos", meaning "nation", "people", or "race". It is commonly used to refer to specific ethnic or cultural groups.
- "-centricity" is a suffix derived from the Greek word "kentrikos", meaning "centered" or "focused". It is often used to indicate a central point of reference or a particular perspective.
When combined, "ethno-" and "-centricity" create the word "ethnocentricity", which refers to the tendency or worldview of evaluating or interpreting other cultures based on one's own cultural standards or values.
