David Alwinkle indeed highlights the conflict between the two cultural concepts of ethnocentrism and cultural relativism. By definition, ethnocentrism refers to a scenario in which individuals make judgments upon the cultural practices of others relative to their own culture and their subjective perspectives. In Alwinkle’s story, his refusal to believe in the Japanese way of life as the only way is one instance in which ethnocentrism is brought to the fore. Besides, the discrimination faced by that Alwinkle in the process of acquiring Japanese citizenship and his efforts in writing books challenging the Japanese way life is other instances in which ethnocentrism is illuminated. However, the story also brings up cases of cultural relativism. By definition, cultural relativism refers to a situation in which the values, practices, and beliefs are based on an individual’s culture. Indeed, The adoption of the Japanese name, the full immersion into Japanese citizenry, and the efforts made by Alwinkle in encouraging people to determine what it means to be Japanese are the instances I which cultural relativism is highlighted in the story.
The definition of ethnocentrism provided is appropriate. Primarily, ethnocentrism refers to the stereotypical tendency in which individuals view their culture to be superior concerning the practices and beliefs held by others. Ethnocentrism is indeed a significant cause of bias, intolerance, and bullying, which emanates as a result of the misrepresentation and a lack of understanding of the cultural practices held by others. The examples give on ethnocentrism presented are pertinent. For instance, the inspection for the presence of Japanese food or kids’ toys is an aspect of ethnocentrism as the inspectors perceived the possession of these items to be a definite indicator of adherence to the cultural dictates. Cultural relativism, on the other hand, refers to a scenario in which an individual’s action and activities are used to dictate their views on culture. Examples from the story include the fact that Alwinkle believed that he fitted with his wife’s lifestyle than his own based on his definition of culture and his inherent beliefs.
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