Etnocêntrico

Etnocêntrico refers to the tendency to view the world primarily from the perspective of one's own culture or ethnic group. This perspective often leads to the belief that one's own cultural norms, values, and practices are superior to those of other groups. An etnocentric individual may judge other cultures based on their own cultural standards, leading to misunderstandings and prejudice.

This phenomenon is a common aspect of human social behavior and can arise from a natural inclination to understand the world through familiar frameworks. It can manifest in various ways, from subtle biases in perception to overt expressions of cultural superiority. While a certain degree of cultural identification is natural and can contribute to social cohesion, extreme etnocentrism can hinder intercultural communication and cooperation.

The opposite of etnocentrism is cultural relativism, which suggests that a culture should be understood on its own terms, without judgment based on the standards of another culture. Recognizing and challenging etnocentric tendencies is important for fostering a more inclusive and understanding global society. It involves actively seeking to comprehend different perspectives and appreciating the diversity of human experience.