Ethnocentricity is the inclination to use ones own culture as the standard against which all others are held. I grew up in the dieting culture of the United States. Every week there is a new method by which we can lose weight as effortlessly and efficiently as possible. I am a product of the modern […]
Ethnocentrism and Cultural Relativism #2
Ethnocentrism and Cultural Relativism I’ve always tried to stay on the side of cultural relativism, which I define as remembering the context and culture you’re in instead of immediately judging something. I view ethnocentrism as something that stems from racism or a type of nationalism, that your culture is the best and every other culture […]
Culture Shock: Linea 5
Before coming to Ecuador I was given forewarning that “catcalling” would be an issue and that people would stare because I look different. What I was unprepared for was the reaction that my appearance would evoke from children. My commute to and from school involves a short walk and a twenty-minute bus ride. I am […]
Syncretism: Public Health Ecuador
It is the job of public healthcare workers to address the health needs of the community in its entirety. With a clear divide between indigenous and modern culture, it is only natural that the healthcare system would reflect such a blend and such a distinction. During our cultural study project, I have addressed this larger […]
Culture Post #3: Syncretism
Syncretism is the combining, or attempted combining of two different cultures, religions, or ways of thinking. In general, I don’t really think of this as a bad thing, so long as both cultures are respected in the process and the intent is not malicious. Honestly, this is not really something that I ever think about […]