Ethnocentrism

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Ethnocentrism
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Characteristics of Ethnocentrism

• An individual with an ethnocentric view
• Identifies strongly with in-group ethnicity,
  culture, etc.
• Feels proud, vain, superior about in-group
• Defines their culture elements as correct
  natural
• Thinks in-group norms are universal
• Rejects out-group ethnicities, cultures, etc.
• Feels like other ethnicities cultures are
  inferior
• Xenophobia a fear or hatred of persons of a
  different race, or different ethnic or national
  origin

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Types of Ethnocentrism

• American Exceptionalism perception that US
  differs from other developed nations because of
  its unique origins, national credo, historical
  evolution, distinctive political religious
  institutions belief that US is hope for
  humanity moral superiority

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American Ethnocentrism

• Ethnocentrism occurs frequently here at home
• Examples
• Capitalism vs. Communism for years, the US has
  fought to end communism because they believe
  capitalism trumps all
• Driving Ethnocentric Americans say that driving
  on the left side of the road is the wrong side
  that the right side is the correct side

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Ethnocentric Stereotypes

• Ethnocentric views lead to stereotyping
• Stereotype generalizations about a group of
  people whereby we attribute a defined set of
  characteristics to this group can be positive or
  negative

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Ethnocentric Stereotypes
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Stereotypes Defined

• Stereotypes are assumed characteristics based on
  a large group of individuals whose beliefs,
  habits, and actions are similar.
• Education can help us overcome stereotypes.

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Stereotypes Ex. 1

• All NASCAR fans are Hicks!
• True or false?

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Stereotypes Ex. 2

• All rap artists are uneducated, or all rappers
  are thugs.
• True or false?

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Stereotype Ex. 3

• All Muslims are terrorists.
• True or false?

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How do they impact me?

• Stereotypes are negative and often lead to
  discrimination or oppression.