Ethnocentrism is a sociological term developed by Austrian sociologist Ludwig Gumplowicz. This term explores how people view other (or foreign) cultures.
What is ethnocentrism?
This was a term that I first learned about in one of my sociology classes back in college.
Its definition, according to Dictionary.com, is the belief that one’s own culture is superior or dominant to others.
It also describes a tendency that people often view other people’s cultures through their own cultural lens.
I have this friend.
He is a patriotic Chinese person and he believes that his culture is the best. He believes that all East Asian people are descendants of China, thus making China the dominant nation (and culture).
However, there isn’t much information or facts that back this up, except for ancient Chinese tales and myths.
But because he holds this belief, he is practicing ethnocentrism. Continue reading “What is Ethnocentrism?”