What concept refers to the belief that one's own culture is superior to others?

The belief that one's own culture is superior to others is best described by the concept of ethnocentrism. This term captures the tendency to evaluate other cultures through the lens of one's own cultural norms and values, often leading to a bias that views other cultures as inferior or less civilized. Ethnocentrism can affect social interaction and relationships, fostering misunderstanding and conflict, as individuals may struggle to appreciate diverse cultural practices and perspectives.

In contrast, multiculturalism promotes the recognition and appreciation of multiple cultures as equally valuable and significant. Normative culturalism, while similar, does not convey the sense of superiority inherent in ethnocentrism; it typically refers to cultural standards that are accepted within a specific society. Cultural relativism emphasizes understanding cultural practices without bias and recognizes that each culture has its own context and system of values, challenging the notion of superiority altogether. Thus, ethnocentrism distinctly highlights the perceived hierarchy among different cultures, making it the accurate term for this belief.