Cultural-centric

Cultural-centric describes a perspective, viewpoint, or practice that places a particular culture at the center, judging or interpreting other cultures through its own cultural lens. It often involves a prioritization of one's own cultural values, beliefs, and norms, potentially leading to ethnocentrism or the assumption that one's own culture is superior. This can manifest in various ways, from artistic expression and educational systems to political ideologies and economic models. Cultural-centricity, while offering a sense of identity and cohesion within a group, can also lead to misunderstanding, bias, and conflict when interacting with different cultural groups. The emphasis is placed on the importance or relevance of a singular culture, sometimes to the exclusion of others.

Cultural-centric meaning with examples

• The school's curriculum was considered cultural-centric as it primarily featured historical events and literary works from the dominant culture, overlooking significant contributions from diverse ethnic groups. This limited students' understanding of global perspectives and perpetuated a narrow view of history. The lack of representation in teaching materials fostered a sense of exclusion among students from marginalized backgrounds, impacting their engagement and academic performance.
• The media's portrayal of international events demonstrated a cultural-centric bias, often framing them through the lens of Western values and interests. News reports frequently prioritized narratives relevant to the home audience, potentially misrepresenting complex situations and failing to provide sufficient context for viewers to grasp the complexities of non-Western cultures. This can negatively affect understanding, and lead to further misconceptions.
• The company's marketing campaign was cultural-centric, assuming universal appeal for products designed around the values and aesthetics of a single culture. As a result, it failed to resonate with consumers in diverse markets, leading to disappointing sales figures and a damaged brand image. The lack of adaptation to local preferences and sensitivities underscored the need for cultural awareness in global business ventures and expansion plans.
• The debate surrounding immigration often showcases a cultural-centric viewpoint, with concerns raised about the potential impact of new arrivals on the established cultural norms and societal values. This perspective sometimes overlooks the economic and social contributions of immigrants, focusing instead on perceived threats to cultural homogeneity and potentially fostering xenophobia. It highlights the conflict between preserving established identity and welcoming diversity.
• The design of the museum's exhibits revealed a cultural-centric approach, predominantly showcasing artifacts and interpretations from a single historical period and region. Other cultures and eras were less represented, diminishing the richness of human history, limiting opportunities for visitors to engage with broader perspectives, and potentially reinforcing historical biases. The uneven representation underscored the importance of inclusivity in museums.