Answer to Question #119855 in Sociology for Kwaku

Question

(i). Explain the concept of ethnocentrism.
(ii). What is the importance of ethnocentrism to change agents?

Answer 1

(i) Ethnocentrism is a type of cultural group or ethnic group egocentrism which entails a belief that one culture or group including its practices and values are superior than the other. Those who believe contrary to a group are treated with contempt, hostility and hatred. Ethnocentrism is often regarded as the cause of social problem like oppression, discrimination, wars and slavery.

(ii) The importance of ethnocentrism to change agents can be viewed from two sides. One, the change agents see his or her culture as superior through their effort of implementing change. Secondly, from the side of the client who sees his culture or opinion to be superior in response to the intended change. Therefor change agents should not be biased in the way they introduce change to different ethnocentric groups.