Ethnocentrism

Ethnocentrism is the belief that one’s own culture, norms, and values are superior to those of other cultures. This viewpoint leads to biased judgments of other cultural practices, often viewing them as strange, inferior, or immoral. Ethnocentrism influences social cohesion by reinforcing group identity but also contributes to prejudice, discrimination, and social conflict by fostering an “us vs. them” mentality. It can be observed in everyday interactions, media representations, and institutional practices, where one culture’s standards are imposed on others. Sociologically, ethnocentrism plays a significant role in power dynamics, influencing how dominant groups perceive and interact with marginalized cultures. Understanding ethnocentrism is key to addressing cultural biases, promoting intercultural empathy, and fostering social inclusion in increasingly diverse societies.