|
||||
Table of Contents | Cover Page | Editors | Contributors | Introduction | Web Version |
||||
| ETHNOCENTRISM | ||||
| The use of one's own culture as a basis for judging other cultures.
Generally, ethnocentrism assumes the superiority of one's own culture and
is an inevitability, given that most people are reared in and are familiar
with only one culture. Ethnocentrism may serve positive functions for
society; for example, it encourages and reinforces group solidarity. But
it also can have a negative impact. Ethnocentrism discourages rapid
assimilation into another culture and, in its most negative aspects, can
contribute to racial and ethnic prejudices, foster conflict, and provide a
rationale for suspicion and hostility in dealings with outsiders.
—Steven D. Glazier |
||||
| return to Encyclopedia Table of Contents | ||||
Hartford
Institute for Religion Research hirr@hartsem.edu
|
