Question

The tendency to view one's own group as superior to others and as the standard for judging the worth of foreign ways is known as: A. behaviorism. B. ethnocentrism. C. humanism. D. functionalism.

Short answer

Answer: Ethnocentrism

Step-by-step solution

Understand the terms

To answer this question, the student must first understand the meanings of the four terms provided. 1. Behaviorism: A psychological approach that emphasizes the study of observable behavior and the role of the environment as a determinant of behavior. 2. Ethnocentrism: The belief in the inherent superiority of one's own ethnic group or culture and the tendency to judge other cultures by the standards of one's own. 3. Humanism: A philosophical and ethical stance that emphasizes the value and agency of human beings, individually and collectively; it prefers critical thinking and evidence over dogma or superstition. 4. Functionalism: A theory in sociology that aims to explain social institutions based on their intended function and their contribution to the stability of a society.

Identify the correct term

Based on the definitions, the term that describes the tendency to view one's own group as superior to others and as the standard for judging the worth of foreign ways is ethnocentrism. So the correct answer is: B. ethnocentrism

Key concepts

Cultural Superiority

The belief in cultural superiority is deeply intertwined with the concept of ethnocentrism, which is the idea highlighted in the exercise where one’s own culture or ethnic group is seen as the standard against which other cultures are judged. It is a psychological barrier that prevents individuals from seeing the cultural practices of others as different yet equally valid.

Cultural superiority assumes that one's culture has the 'right' customs, traditions, and beliefs while viewing others as inferior or less civilized. This can lead to a lack of understanding and appreciation for the richness and diversity of different cultures. Encouraging students to study various cultural frameworks and values can promote a more inclusive worldview, which is necessary in our increasingly interconnected global society. Understanding this bias is a crucial step towards developing cultural competence, an essential skill in today’s globalized world.

Social Psychology

Social psychology provides insight into how individuals’ thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the actual or imagined presence of others. In the context of ethnocentrism, social psychology explores how cultural norms and societal pressures shape our perception of other groups. The subject examines why we might harbor biases towards our own communities and also the dynamics that lead to in-group favoritism and out-group discrimination.

Studies in social psychology have revealed that people are more likely to display ethnocentrism under conditions of competition or conflict with other groups. Education about social psychological phenomena such as group conformity, social identity, and intergroup relationships can facilitate a deeper understanding of ethnocentrism and promote strategies to overcome prejudicial attitudes.

Cross-Cultural Comparisons

Cross-cultural comparisons are critical in identifying the similarities and differences among various cultural groups, thus challenging the notion of cultural superiority. By systemically comparing cultural practices, beliefs, and values, students can recognize universal aspects of the human experience as well as appreciate the uniqueness of each culture.

These comparisons help in highlighting that no culture is inherently superior or inferior; they are just different. When making cross-cultural comparisons, it is crucial to adopt a culturally relativistic perspective, which means evaluating a culture based on its own standards and values rather than imposing external judgments. This approach fosters greater empathy and respect for cultural diversity and serves as a powerful tool against ethnocentrism, promoting a more harmonious and tolerant world.