The concept of ethnocentrism

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THE CONCEPT OF ETHNOCENTRISM

Chinese philosopher Confucius stated that “All people are the same; its only their habits that are different”.

People within the western world are lucky to hold a privileged position within the worlds social system. Everything done by these people stems from the fact that they were brought up in a certain type of society that offers opportunities. “Sociology is – the systematic, sceptical study of human society”, (Ken Plummer). So as sociologists it should be remembered that our perspective and outlook could be different due to the upbringing that was had. This must not affect however sociologists judgements upon society. Peter Berger (1963) described the sociological perspective as “Seeing the general in the particular”. Socialization allows social interaction, social learning and social development. This allows people to learn who others are, how they are connected to others and how they can manage those social connections. The understanding of how social life is organised, maintained and changed. Cultural perspectives allow people to gain knowledge and give meaning to the world around them.  Anticipatory socialization is the learning of values and orientations related to roles one may play in the future. Resocialization  embraces new sets of norms, values and expectations as people encounter new situations roles and relationships. Socialization is generally, a never-ending process of learning about oneself and our connection to the world around us.

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Ethnocentrism is the feeling that one’s group has a mode of living, values and patterns of adaption that are superior to those of other groups. It is coupled with a generalized contempt for members of other groups. Ethnocentrism may manifest itself in attitudes of superiority or sometimes hostility. Violence, discrimination and verbal aggressiveness are other means whereby ethnocentrism may be expected. Sociologists have to beware of ethnocentrism it is always a tricky part of intercultural communication.

An American sociologist, Christina G. Boyd studied the culture and society within Saudi Arabia. She created a report called “Covered heads ...

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