What do we call the tendency to judge other cultures by our own cultural standards?

The tendency to judge other cultures by our own cultural standards is referred to as ethnocentrism. This concept emphasizes how individuals often evaluate other societies through the lens of their own cultural experiences and values, which can lead to misunderstandings and a lack of appreciation for cultural diversity. Ethnocentrism can manifest in various ways, including favoring one’s own culture and viewing it as superior to others. This perspective can hinder cross-cultural understanding and create barriers in interpersonal and intergroup relations.

In contrast, cultural relativism is the idea that a person's beliefs and practices should be understood based on their own cultural context rather than judged against the criteria of another culture. Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of cultures through trade, communication, and technology. A subculture describes a group that exists within a larger culture, sharing distinct values or norms but still part of the larger cultural framework. Ethnocentrism specifically highlights the evaluative judgment aspect, making it the appropriate term for this tendency.