Stereotypes Of Ethnocentrism

According to Dictionary.com, ethnocentrism is the belief that one’s culture is superior to another (Ethnocentrism, n.d.). On the other hand, there is stereotyping, which Dictionary.com describes as a generalization of people in a specific group (Stereotyping, n.d.). Whether it is with one’s own culture or another, these two definitions are specific beliefs that one has of a culture. Both of these definitions can be seen as negative beliefs that a person may possess. Although these two definitions are slightly similar, there are significant differences. Ethnocentrism can be viewed negatively by others; however, it is a positive image of one’s own culture. Moreover, stereotyping involves a negative image about another culture. Within every culture there is always a negative viewpoint that follows.

There are a number of ways Mormons are viewed. One negative word associated with Mormonism is the word “polygamy, which is a reference to plural marriage. Another negative word is “Cult,” which would mean that a religion not be accepted by a larger religion. Mormons associate their religion with Christianity, however, to other Christians, Mormonism may be viewed as a cult. One example of ethnocentrism about Mormons is on an episode of Saturday Night Live. In the episode, Tim Tebow and the rest of his team win once again. As the team is praying, Jesus Christ makes an appearance, as he leaves he leaves them with one piece of advice. He says, “Mormonism. All true. Every single word. Yeah. Alright, peace!” (9 Funniest, 2016). Since Mormonism is not a popular religion in the world, there are many people who find their beliefs to be nonsense, which is demonstrated in Saturday Night Live. Mormons have also received rejection from religions within Christianity, which is what they affiliate themselves