Ethnocentrism and Cultural Relativism

Written Assignment

Ethnocentrism and Cultural Relativism

This assignment focuses on the concept of ethnocentrism, the idea that others can be judged through the lens of one’s own cultural group, which is superior to another (Sherrill, 2003). Ethnocentric beliefs are often the foundation for many diversity-related arguments in political, religious, and racial discussions. Ethnocentrism can often be seen at the center of arguments about the moral foundations of our society, with each side arguing based on their own long-held cultural beliefs. Others, however, argue that morality is culturally relative and accordingly, so are our beliefs. As such, rules regarding right and wrong, what is moral or just, would be based on our cultural backgrounds.

In your discussion this week, you explored your own cultural dimensions. For this assignment, think about your longest held cultural beliefs, considering how your personal background has influenced who you are today. Consider all of the cultural associations you may have now and in the past including your customs and traditions such as dress, music, dance, family stories, holidays, and celebrations.

Instructions:

First, take a moment to complete the New York Times quiz {copy the link below to complete the quiz} http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2013/12/20/sunday-review/dialect-quiz-map.html?_r=0

” to see how dialect can reflect your cultural background.

Then, write a 1320-1650 word paper (not including the title page) about how ethnocentrism and cultural relativism affect how you see yourself and others.

Specifically address:

1. Definitions (can be in your introductory paragraphs):

a. What do you mean by “culture”?

b. What is ethnocentrism?

c. What is cultural relativism?

2. What cultural group(s) do you belong to?

a. Who or what has influenced you?

b. What are the cultural norms associated with your cultural groups?

c. What customs and traditions such as dress, music, dance, family stories, holidays, and celebrations are associated with your culture?

3. Analyze your perspectives.

a. What of your perspectives are rooted in ethnocentric beliefs?

b. What of your perspectives are based on cultural relativism?

c. Give at least one example of when you have been involved with someone judging you in an ethnocentric manner.

You are strongly encouraged to use the APA format template (Links to an external site.) to guide you while writing your paper. Include a properly formatted title page. For clarity, divide your paper into sections with properly formatted section headings. Be sure to include an introductory paragraph stating what your paper is about and a conclusion section at the end giving the high points of the paper. This assignment does not require an abstract.

Assignment Submission Checklist:

· Did you use the APA Template?

· Did you include three journals?

· Did you proof read your paper?

Important notice, to answer all questions, I am from Africa (Nigeria precisely). Christianity is my religion. I Have attached hint for the assignment, see it below!!!!!!

I belong to African Ethnic Group (Yoruba people) so please search for information about Y

The Yorùbá people are an African ethnic group that inhabits western Africa. The Yoruba constitute about 44 million people in total. Most of this population is from Nigeria, where the Yorùbá make up 21% of the country’s population, according to the CIA World Factbook, making them one of the largest ethnic groups in Africa. Most Yoruba people speak the Yoruba language, which is the Niger-Congo language with the largest number of native, L1 or first language speakers.

In Yoruba culture, different occasions require wearing different outfits. Usually, Yoruba traditional clothes are made up of a wide range of different materials. The basic Yoruba clothing material is Aso-Oke (the cloth of various colors and patterns, which are sewn in different styles). Aso-Oke comes in many patterns and color schemes.

10 Things That Might Surprise You About Yoruba Culture

Yoruba people are one of the largest ethnic groups in West Africa, primarily living in Nigeria. Their traditions have developed and matured for thousands of years, leaving a rich cultural history in its path. While many Yoruba people have moved into urban environments like Lagos, a good portion of them still keep their old traditions. Here are 10 things that might surprise you about Yoruba culture.

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