ethnocentrism - is a fundamental concept that a certain ethnic group, race, social class or group is perceived as a prevalent and significantly superior to all others.This view is typical of most communities, which are to some extent independently of the other.
Such position is absolutely natural attitude of people in relation to all incomprehensible and alien to them.In this case, ethnocentrism - is using that one race or group of self-identified, retains its own cultural characteristics and determine its location, among others.
regard to the assessment of this phenomenon, it is like any other social phenomenon, it may not be only positive or only the negative side, necessarily requires a comprehensive approach.
From one point of view, ethnocentrism - is that quite often acts as an obstacle to the organization of inter-group conflict-free interaction.On the other - ethnocentrism is also a fact that ensures the maintenance of ethnic identity and the preservation of the uniqueness and integrity of the group.That is, in certain conditions, this phenomenon can be described in very different ways.For example, cultural ethnocentrism as a logical consequence of the process of mastering the traditions of a particular society or nation is absolutely positive.And we are talking only about the assessment of the world through their own filter purchase, which is absolutely inherent in every human being.
should also be noted that this socio-psychological phenomenon in society can cause positive social impacts, such as the sense of national unity and patriotism, as well as negative.
Key examples of ethnocentrism, which contains the negative features - is nationalism, chauvinism and discrimination.One of the most extreme versions of the phenomenon of racism, defined as a set of propositions, according to which a particular race is superior to all others in the mental and moral and cultural terms, and superkachestva inherent in its support, are transmitted only by inheritance.In this example, ethnocentrism - is what is the ideological foundation and the pacemaker in the struggle for power and influence between different nations.Supporters of racism oppose miscegenation, since, in their opinion, it can lead to genetic, moral and cultural degradation "superior" race.
In conclusion, it should be noted that the ethnocentric to varying degrees, are all people, so everyone who is aware of this, must learn to develop the flexibility and understanding in relation to other people.This is achieved through the development of a positive perception of intercultural competence and the ability to establish cooperation with the representatives of different races and cultures.
