Viewing Culture in America: Ethnocentric and Xenocentric Practices
The United States of America was settled by cultures from around the world, and with time, the country has developed a unique culture of its own. The U.S. has state fairs, Girl Scout Cookies, and churches of every denomination. Considering its history, one would assume that Americans are culturally relevant— meaning willing to embrace and accept all cultures and walks of life. However, this is unfortunately not the case. In the United States, you will find that the majority – not all – of individuals are ethnocentric or xenocentric. To elaborate, they either believe that American culture is superior or that other cultures are superior to America. These opposing views create tension among individuals, states, and the country.
In my short time on this Earth, I have experienced people with either perspective; from the hard-core patriot who doesn’t understand why immigration shouldn’t be made illegal, to the American who seeks solace in another country due to their governing bodies. Additionally, I have met foreign citizens who love the United States of America for its freedom, as well as those who cannot wait to return home due to the prevalence of guns.
To expand on American views, many ethnocentric citizens view immigration as a threat to American safety and identity. This fear is largely attributed to the increased crime rate, increased policies around border control, and the wars and attacks that still ring in America’s ears. While the crime rate in the United States has increased, this is not entirely due to immigration, but more likely caused by the rising population of individuals, including citizens. To paint a clearer picture, when a country has more inhabitants, it can raise statistics, as well as limit resources such as food, water, and money. Additionally, the American government has restricted individuals from coming into the United States and has begun deporting people, regardless of their citizenship. Together, the rising population and deportations have created a fear of immigrants, which only gives power to ethnocentric ideology.
On the other hand, xenocentric citizens view American culture as gluttonous, lacking, and centered on money. For example, xenocentric Americans will compare American culture and healthcare to Chinese culture or to Canadian healthcare. As with ethnocentrism, these ideals are caused by ignorance, misinformation, and a lack of appreciation. To clarify, although Chinese culture can be painted as richer, it is essential to remember that their modern country has been civilized for thousands of years, but modern-day America has only been forming for a few hundred. However, xenocentric individuals tend to focus on the lack of development, rather than the time needed for such progress. Additionally, many xenocentric Americans do not understand that while Canadian healthcare is free, it involves a lengthy waitlist and doctors who seem exhausted and disengaged, as told to me by a Canadian citizen. Regardless of the reasons a xenocentric individual gives, it is evident that their lack of appreciation lies in the reality of misunderstanding their own culture.
The prevalence of ethnocentrism and xenocentrism does not exist only in the United States of America; however, it highlights the importance of balance. True balance means loving one’s culture while also embracing the differences of others, not disdaining them. Globally, every person wants to be appreciated, understood, and loved. As humanity strives for equality and world love, it is essential to remember that one’s culture is not the only culture wishing for these changes. At the end of the day, love is bred in understanding, so let us love one another.