Definition

The belief that one's own culture or ethnic group is superior to others, often leading to a biased view of other cultures.

Example

His ethnocentricity made it difficult for him to appreciate the traditions of other cultures.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how ethnocentricity affects our views on culture?

I have! It can really cloud our judgment sometimes.

Yeah, it makes it hard to appreciate other perspectives.

Exactly! We should try to be more open-minded about different cultures.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ethnocentricity is formed from "ethno-" (from Greek "ethnos", meaning nation or people) and "centricity" (from Latin "centrum", meaning center). The term describes the quality of viewing one's own ethnic group as the center of everything, often leading to the belief that other cultures are inferior.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ethno-' meaning 'people' and 'centricity' meaning 'center' — this helps you remember that ethnocentricity is about seeing one's own people as the center of importance.

Visually Confused Words