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Ethnocentrism. 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
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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
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
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’
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
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.
Stereotypes Ex. #1 • All NASCAR fans are Hicks! • True or false?
Stereotypes Ex. #2 • All rap artists are uneducated, or all rappers are “thugs”. • True or false?
Stereotype Ex. #3 • All Muslims are terrorists. • True or false?
How do they impact me? • Stereotypes are negative and often lead to discrimination or oppression.