Ethnocentrism vs. Racism — What's the Difference?

Ethnocentrism in social science and anthropology—as well as in colloquial English discourse—means to apply one's own culture or ethnicity as a frame of reference to judge other cultures, practices, behaviors, beliefs, and people, instead of using the standards of the particular culture involved. Since this judgement is often negative, some people also use the term to refer to the belief that one's culture is superior to, or more correct or normal than, all others—especially regarding the distinctions that define each ethnicity's cultural identity, such as language, behavior, customs, and religion.

Racism is the belief that groups of humans possess different behavioral traits corresponding to physical appearance and can be divided based on the superiority of one race over another. It may also mean prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against other people because they are of a different race or ethnicity.

Belief in the superiority of one's own ethnic group.

The belief that race accounts for differences in human character or ability and that a particular race is superior to others.

Overriding concern with ethnicity.

Discrimination or prejudice based on race.

The tendency to look at the world primarily from the perspective of one's own traditional, deferred, or adoptive ethnic culture.

The belief that there are distinct human races with inherent differences which determine their abilities, and generally that some are superior and others inferior.

Belief in the superiority of one's own ethnic group.

The policies, practices, or systems (e.g. government or political) promoting this belief or promoting the dominance of one or more races over others.

A tendency to evaluate other people, activities, cultures, etc. primarily from the perspective of one's own as being superior.

Prejudice or discrimination based upon race or ethnicity; (countable) an action of such discrimination.

Belief in the superiority of one's own ethnic group

The prejudice that members of one race are intrinsically superior to members of other races

Discriminatory or abusive behavior towards members of another race