Ethnocentrism is the belief that which is superior?

• A. Cultural Relativism
• B. Pluralism
• C. Ethnocentrism
• D. Xenophobia

Answer: (C)

Ethnocentrism describes judging other cultures by the standards of your own and assuming your culture is superior. That makes it the best answer to a question about thinking one’s culture is superior. Cultural Relativism, by contrast, argues that cultures should be understood on their own terms without bias. Pluralism emphasizes valuing and coexisting with multiple cultures. Xenophobia involves fear or dislike of foreigners, which can accompany ethnocentrism but does not itself define the belief in cultural superiority.