Southwest Airlines Professional Communications Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following terms is defined as "viewing one's own culture as superior to others?"

1. Racism

2. Xenophobia

3. Cultural Relativism

4. Ethnocentricity

The correct answer is: Ethnocentricity

The term that defines "viewing one's own culture as superior to others" is ethnocentricity. Ethnocentricity encapsulates the belief that one’s own culture, values, and norms are the standard against which other cultures are measured. This perspective often leads individuals to dismiss or undervalue other cultures, seeing their own practices as inherently better or more advanced. Ethnocentricity can result in a lack of understanding or appreciation for cultural diversity, which may hinder effective communication and interaction with individuals from different backgrounds. It is important to recognize this mindset in professional settings, as it can directly impact relationships, teamwork, and organizational dynamics. In contrast, the other terms relate to different concepts: racism pertains to discrimination based on racial or ethnic differences, xenophobia refers to a fear or prejudice against people from other countries or cultures, and cultural relativism is the viewpoint that a person's beliefs and practices should be understood based on that individual's own culture, rather than judged against the criteria of another culture. These distinctions highlight the unique implications of ethnocentricity in the context of cultural interactions.