Ethnocentrism In Native American Culture

The term ethnocentrism was something I was not familiar with until reading Tuan’s chapter on it. Although the term itself was new for me, ethnocentrism is something that I have noticed in humanity for most of my life. In the beginning of chapter four, Tuan talked about the many cultures found in New Mexico from white men to Native Americans. It is fascinating how these cultures manage to keep to themselves in such a small area. In their case I think that their ethnocentrism may be advantageous, because if they had chosen to mix with other cultures, their traditions may have been lost over time. By choosing to be ethnocentric they have been able to preserve their languages and way of life over many centuries. If the Navaho, Zuni, Mormon, Spanish-Mexican, and Texans didn’t believe that their ethnic group was superior to the others then they probably would have shared cultures and ideas, eventually losing the things that make their cultures so special. Ethnocentrism could have also been a disadvantage for the people of New Mexico, because when one group feels superior to the next, they miss out on the knowledge that they could gain from other ethnic groups. Just life if someone feels that they are better than someone else, then they will not be willing to learn anything from that person. Each of the groups that …show more content…
Many would argue that they often get involved in world issues that do not concern them, just to show their power. I personally think that the United States may be one of the most ethnocentric countries in the world. The United States was started by strong individuals who no longer wanted to be a part of Great Britain. They came to America for a promising future. Since then America has been known for it’s freedom. This has attracted immigrants from all over to world to come to America.Most Americans pride themselves in their countries advanced technology, jobs, wealth, and a strong