The Coined Concept of Ethnocentrism by William Graham Sumner

Ethnocentrism is a concept that was introduced by William Graham Sumner, a prominent sociologist and scholar, in the early 20th century. Sumner’s work on ethnocentrism has had a significant impact on the field of social sciences, particularly in understanding group dynamics and intergroup relations.

Definition of Ethnocentrism

Sumner defined ethnocentrism as an extreme attachment to one’s own ingroup, which leads to the development of negative attitudes and behaviors towards outgroups. According to Sumner, ethnocentrism arises from the perception of one’s own group as superior and the other group as contemptible. This perspective creates a biased lens through which individuals evaluate and judge other cultures, often leading to a devaluation of those cultures and their practices.

Implications for Outgroup Attitudes

Sumner believed that ethnocentrism is not limited to individual attitudes but extends to the collective level, shaping group dynamics and intergroup relations. The belief in the superiority of one’s own group and the contempt for other groups can escalate conflicts and contribute to the justification of violent actions against outgroups. Ethnocentrism fosters an “us versus them” mentality, hindering understanding, cooperation, and empathy between different cultural groups.

Connection to the Evolution of Warfare

Sumner argued that ethnocentrism, along with xenophobia, plays a crucial role in the evolution of warfare. The extreme attachment to one’s own ingroup and the negative attitudes towards outgroups can fuel intergroup conflicts and lead to violent confrontations. Sumner believed that the perception of one’s own group as superior and better than others, combined with contempt for other groups, creates a fertile ground for the justification and initiation of warfare.

The Natural Tendency of Ethnocentrism

Ethnocentrism is a natural tendency that emerges from being born into a particular culture and adopting its attitudes and beliefs as normal. Individuals are socialized within their cultural contexts, learning language, customs, values, and religious practices that are specific to their group. This socialization process ingrains ethnocentric attitudes and biases, making it challenging to adopt a truly objective perspective when encountering different cultures and ways of thinking.

Conclusion

William Graham Sumner’s contribution to the understanding of ethnocentrism has been significant in the field of social sciences. His definition of ethnocentrism as extreme attachment to the ingroup, leading to outgroup hate, sheds light on the dynamics of intergroup relations. Sumner’s insights into the connection between ethnocentrism, xenophobia, and the evolution of warfare provide valuable perspectives on the origins and consequences of intergroup conflicts.

References:

• ScienceDirect: Ethnopsychology. (URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/social-sciences/ethnopsychology)
• Journal of Social and Political Psychology: “Who Coined the Concept of Ethnocentrism? A Brief Report” by J.C. Cohrs, A. Figueiredo, I.E. Putra, J.R. Vollhardt. (URL: https://jspp.psychopen.eu/index.php/jspp/article/view/4799/4799.html)
• SpringerLink: “Ethnocentrism” in the Encyclopedia of Child Behavior and Development. (URL: https://link.springer.com/10.1007%2F978-0-387-79061-9_1035)

FAQs

What is ethnocentrism?

Ethnocentrism refers to the tendency of individuals or groups to evaluate other cultures based on the standards and norms of their own culture. It involves the belief that one’s own cultural group is superior to others, leading to biased judgments and attitudes towards outgroups.

Who coined the concept of ethnocentrism?

The concept of ethnocentrism was coined by William Graham Sumner, a prominent sociologist and scholar, in the early 20th century. Sumner’s work on ethnocentrism has had a significant impact on understanding intergroup relations and the dynamics of cultural biases.

How did William Graham Sumner define ethnocentrism?

Sumner defined ethnocentrism as an extreme attachment to one’s own ingroup, which results in negative attitudes and behaviors towards outgroups. He argued that ethnocentrism arises from perceiving one’s own group as superior and viewing other groups as contemptible.

What are the implications of ethnocentrism for outgroup attitudes?

Ethnocentrism contributes to the development of negative attitudes towards outgroups. It fosters a sense of “us versus them” mentality, hindering understanding, empathy, and cooperation between different cultural groups. Ethnocentric attitudes can lead to discrimination, prejudice, and even conflicts between groups.

How does ethnocentrism relate to the evolution of warfare?

According to Sumner, ethnocentrism and xenophobia play a significant role in the evolution of warfare. The belief in the superiority of one’s own group and the contempt for other groups can escalate intergroup conflicts and contribute to the justification and initiation of violent actions against outgroups.

Is ethnocentrism a natural tendency?

Yes, ethnocentrism is considered a natural tendency. It arises from being born into a particular culture and adopting its attitudes and beliefs as normal. Through the process of socialization, individuals internalize the values, customs, and practices of their cultural group, which can lead to ethnocentric attitudes and biases.

Can ethnocentrism be overcome?

While ethnocentrism is a natural tendency, it is possible to overcome or mitigate its negative effects through education, exposure to different cultures, and fostering intergroup contact. Increasing cultural awareness, promoting empathy, and encouraging open-mindedness can help individuals develop a more inclusive and tolerant perspective towards other cultures.

How does ethnocentrism impact intergroup relations?

Ethnocentrism can have a significant impact on intergroup relations. It can lead to stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination against outgroups. Ethnocentric attitudes often hinder positive interactions and cooperation between different cultural groups, creating barriers to mutual understanding and acceptance.