An individual with an ethnocentric view: Identifies strongly with in-group ethnicity, culture,

etc.Feels proud, vain, superior about in-groupDefines their culture elements as ‘correct’ &

‘natural’Thinks in-group norms are universal

Rejects out-group ethnicities, cultures, etc.Feels like other ethnicities & cultures are inferiorXenophobia: a fear or hatred of persons of a

different race, or different ethnic or national origin

American Exceptionalism: perception that US differs from other developed nations because of its unique origins, national credo, historical evolution, & distinctive political & religious institutions; belief that US is hope for humanity; moral superiority

Ethnocentrism occurs frequently here at homeExamples:Capitalism vs. Communism: for years, the US

has fought to end communism because they believe capitalism trumps all

Driving: Ethnocentric Americans say that driving on the left side of the road is the ‘wrong side’ & that the right side is the ‘correct side’

Ethnocentric views lead to stereotypingStereotype: generalizations about a group of

people whereby we attribute a defined set of characteristics to this group; can be positive or negative

Stereotypes are assumed characteristics based on a large group of individuals whose beliefs, habits, and actions are similar.

Education can help us overcome stereotypes.

All NASCAR fans are Hicks!

True or false?

All rap artists are uneducated, or all rappers are “thugs”.

True or false?

All Muslims are terrorists.True or false?

Stereotypes are negative and often lead to discrimination or oppression.