What defines ethnocentrism in the context of cultural studies?

Ethnocentrism is defined as the tendency to interpret or evaluate behaviors, beliefs, and practices of other cultures primarily through the lens of one’s own cultural norms and values. This perspective leads individuals to view their own culture as superior and can result in misunderstanding or misjudgment of other cultures. By assessing other cultures based on the standards and values of one’s own, ethnocentrism not only highlights the subjective nature of cultural perception but also promotes a gap in cross-cultural understanding and communication. This central idea distinguishes ethnocentrism from acceptance of cultural diversity, adaptation to different cultural practices, or the promotion of cultural exchanges, which all involve respect and openness to other cultures rather than a comparison against one's own cultural framework.