Definition

Relating to the analysis of cultural or behavioral phenomena from an outside perspective, without considering the internal context or meaning within the culture.

Example

The etic approach allowed researchers to study the community's behaviors without being influenced by their own cultural biases.

Conversation

I was reading about cultural studies, and they mentioned something called etic analysis.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It's basically looking at a culture from an outside perspective, without being part of it.

That sounds interesting! It must give a different view on cultural practices.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

This word originates from Greek 'etikos' (meaning ethical or moral), which is derived from 'ethos' (meaning character or custom). The term 'etic' refers to an approach that is external or objective, often used in anthropology to describe an outsider's perspective on cultural practices.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ethos', which relates to character or custom, to remember that 'etic' refers to an external or objective view of cultural practices.

Visually Confused Words