Ethnocentrism And Cultural Relativismthis Assignment Focuses On The Co ✓ Solved
Ethnocentrism and Cultural Relativism This assignment focuses on the concept of ethnocentrism, the idea that others can be judged through the lens of one’s own cultural group, which is superior to another (Sherrill, 2003). Ethnocentric beliefs are often the foundation for many diversity-related arguments in political, religious, and racial discussions. Ethnocentrism can often be seen at the center of arguments about the moral foundations of our society, with each side arguing based on their own long-held cultural beliefs. Others, however, argue that morality is culturally relative and accordingly, so are our beliefs. As such, rules regarding right and wrong, what is moral or just, would be based on our cultural backgrounds.
In your discussion this week, you explored your own cultural dimensions. For this assignment, think about your longest held cultural beliefs, considering how your personal background has influenced who you are today. Consider all of the cultural associations you may have now and in the past including your customs and traditions such as dress, music, dance, family stories, holidays, and celebrations. Instructions: First, take a moment to complete the New York Times quiz " How Y'all, Youse, and You Guys Talk (Links to an external site.) " to see how dialect can reflect your cultural background. Then, write a word paper (not including the title page) about how ethnocentrism and cultural relativism affect how you see yourself and others.
Specifically address: 1. Definitions (can be in your introductory paragraphs): a. What do you mean by “cultureâ€? b. What is ethnocentrism? c. What is cultural relativism?
2. What cultural group(s) do you belong to? a. Who or what has influenced you? b. What are the cultural norms associated with your cultural groups? c. What customs and traditions such as dress, music, dance, family stories, holidays, and celebrations are associated with your culture?
3. Analyze your perspectives. a. What of your perspectives are rooted in ethnocentric beliefs? b. What of your perspectives are based on cultural relativism? c. Give at least one example of when you have been involved with someone judging you in an ethnocentric manner.
You are strongly encouraged to use the APA format template download to guide you while writing your paper. Include a properly formatted title page. For clarity, divide your paper into sections with properly formatted section headings. Be sure to include an introductory paragraph stating what your paper is about and a conclusion section at the end giving the high points of the paper. This assignment does not require an abstract.
Remember to sign up and use Grammarly (Links to an external site.) as a proofing tool! Assignment Submission Checklist: · Did you use the APA Template? · Did you include three journals? · Did you proof read your paper? Point Value: 8 Points Weekly Learning Outcome Alignment: 1, 3 Course Learning Outcome Alignment: 1, 2, 3, 4 Carefully review the Grading Rubric (Links to an external site.) for the criteria that will be used to evaluate your assignment. Week 2 Resources Required Text Kahn, A. (2015). The ecology of diversity.
San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education. · Ch. 1.1, 1.3; 2.2-2.5; 3.3 Sole, K., & Landrum, R. E. (2015). Academic research and writing: A guide for the social sciences. San Diego, CA.
Bridgepoint Education. · Ch. 1.3; 2.2; 3.1 Required Resources Davis, W. (2015). Thco research training institute. [Video file]. Retrieved from Wade Davis TEDx Hockett, D. (2017, September). We all have biases.
So what can we do about it? [Video file]. Retrieved from We all have implicit biases. So what can we do about it? | Dushaw Hockett | TEDxMidAtlanticSalon (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. New York Times. (n.d.) Quiz: How y'all, youse, and you guys talk . Retrieved from Piper, A. (2015).
A focus on people. Internal Auditor 72 (3), 47-51. [MasterFilePremier] Tritch, C. (2015, July). Let's talk diversity and inclusion. [Video file]. Retrieved from Let’s Talk Diversity and Inclusion | Courtney Tritch | TEDxFortWayne (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. Recommended Resources Carter, C. (n.d.).
Introduction to Syntheses. Retrieved from (Links to an external site.) Paul, R. & Elder, L. (1997, April). The Elements of Reasoning and the Intellectual Standards. Retrieved from thinking.org
Paper for above instructions
Ethnocentrism and Cultural Relativism: Influence on Personal IdentityIntroduction
Ethnocentrism and cultural relativism are two essential concepts that play a significant role in how individuals perceive themselves and others in diverse societies. Ethnocentrism refers to the evaluation of other cultures based on the standards of one's own culture, often leading to the belief that one's own culture is superior (Sherrill, 2003). Conversely, cultural relativism asserts that a person's beliefs and moral values should be understood in the context of their culture (Boas, 1966). This paper explores these concepts in the context of my personal cultural background, its influences on my norms and traditions, and how ethnocentric and relativistic perspectives shape my worldview.
1. Definitions
a. What do you mean by “Culture”?
Culture encompasses the shared beliefs, customs, practices, language, and artifacts of a particular group of people. It includes the values that inform individuals about what is appropriate or inappropriate behavior, and it significantly influences how individuals perceive their surroundings (Kahn, 2015). As such, culture shapes not only personal identity but also the collective identity of groups.
b. What is Ethnocentrism?
Ethnocentrism is the tendency to view one's own culture as the standard by which to judge other cultures. This perspective often leads to stereotyping and negative assumptions about practices or beliefs that differ from one's own (Van Dijk, 1998). Ethnocentrism is pervasive in discussions related to politics, religion, and social issues, resulting in conflict and misunderstanding across cultural boundaries.
c. What is Cultural Relativism?
Cultural relativism is the principle that an individual's beliefs and practices should be understood based on that individual's own culture, rather than be judged against the criteria of another culture (Harris, 1979). This approach promotes empathy and understanding, allowing for a more tolerant perspective towards cultural differences.
2. Cultural Group Affiliation
a. Who or What has Influenced You?
I belong to a cultural group defined primarily by my ethnic background as an Asian American. The traditional values of respect for elders, the importance of family, and an emphasis on education emanate from my heritage and have significantly shaped my identity and worldview (Takaki, 2012). My upbringing was heavily influenced by my family’s immigrant experiences, the assimilation into American society, and a continuous connection to our cultural roots.
b. Cultural Norms Associated with My Cultural Groups
Cultural norms within my group emphasize collectivism over individualism, fostering strong familial bonds and community ties. Additionally, there is a respect for academic achievement, underlined by a belief that education is the key to success (Chhuon & Wallace, 2010). These norms advocate for a sense of duty towards one's family and community, often prioritizing family needs above personal aspirations.
c. Customs and Traditions
My cultural background includes various customs and traditions such as:
- Dress: Traditional attire, such as the kimono or cheongsam, is worn during cultural festivals and celebrations, reflecting pride in my heritage.
- Music and Dance: Traditional music, like folk dances, is an integral part of weddings and festivals, bringing family and community together.
- Family Stories: Oral storytelling from grandparents has instilled values and historical knowledge passed down generations.
- Holidays and Celebrations: Celebrations such as Lunar New Year and Diwali represent important cultural touchstones, marked by family gatherings and festivities that reinforce community bonds (Huang, 2016).
3. Analysis of Perspectives
a. Perspectives Rooted in Ethnocentrism
Some of my perspectives come from ethnocentric beliefs, particularly in how I judge other cultural practices that seem unfamiliar or diverge from my own norms. For instance, witnessing certain eating habits or rituals that are commonplace in other cultures may trigger quintessential reactions of discomfort or disdain, fueled by the ethnocentric belief that my dietary traditions are superior (Betancourt & Flynn, 2009). This reaction has revealed unconscious biases that I often work to acknowledge and address.
b. Perspectives Based on Cultural Relativism
Conversely, cultural relativism has significantly shaped my understanding and appreciation of diversity. Exposure to different cultures through friendships, travel, and education has allowed me to recognize the validity of other cultural practices and the contexts that inspire them (Glick, 2009). As I engage with diverse groups, I strive to apply cultural relativism, cultivating empathy and seeking deeper understanding of their values and beliefs, despite inherent differences.
c. An Example of Ethnocentric Judgment
There was a specific instance during college when a classmate openly judged me for my family’s traditional gathering practices, claiming they were "backward" and "unnecessary." This experience was a stark reminder of the ethnocentric lens many individuals possess, often dismissing rituals and traditions as inferior based on their own cultural beliefs (Brown, 2006). In this encounter, I felt the weight of my cultural identity and strived to convey the significance of my customs, bridging a gap through dialogue, rather than confrontation.
Conclusion
The discussion of ethnocentrism and cultural relativism reveals the complexities of cultural identity and perception. By acknowledging how my cultural experiences shape my worldview, I can identify ethnocentric tendencies and strive toward a more culturally relativistic approach in my interactions with others. Understanding the intricate dynamics of culture not only enhances my personal growth but also fosters tolerance and appreciation for the richness of diverse experiences.
References
1. Betancourt, J. R., & Flynn, K. (2009). Cultural competence in health care: Emerging frameworks and practical approaches. In Healthcare Management: A Case Study Approach.
2. Boas, F. (1966). Anthropology and Modern Life. New York: W. W. Norton & Company.
3. Brown, H. (2006). The role of cultural diversity in the development of identity. Journal of Human Diversity, 1(1), 32-49.
4. Chhuon, V., & Wallace, A. (2010). Ethnic variations in academic achievement among Asian American adolescents. American Educational Research Journal, 47(2), 564-599.
5. Glick, J. E. (2009). The Immigrant Paradox in Children and Adolescents: Is Becoming American a Developmental Risk? Applied Developmental Science, 13(4), 241-253.
6. Harris, M. (1979). Cultural Anthropology. New York: Harper & Row.
7. Huang, Y. (2016). Cultural identity and Chinese-American children: A model of acculturation. International Journal of Psychology, 51(3), 228-235.
8. Kahn, A. (2015). The ecology of diversity. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education.
9. Sherrill, K. (2003). The impact of ethnocentrism on intergroup relations. Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, 34(5), 586-605.
10. Takaki, R. (2012). A Different Mirror: A History of Multicultural America. Boston: Back Bay Books.
By synthesizing these sources, the complex relationship among culture, identity, ethnocentrism, and cultural relativism is better understood, enhancing personal and social dialogues surrounding cultural diversity.