Ethnocentrism and africa?

Question

How does ethnocentism affect your perception on the world, especially in regards to Africa?...any advise one what to write for that? im thinking like people view africa as a starving nation because of some of those commercials that are on tv...even when not all of africa is like that..does that make sense to write?

Answer 1

I think the paper topic is workable, but I would be careful about how you use the word ethnocentrism in this context. Ethnocentrism has a more subtle and specific meaning than "stereotyping" or "over-generalizing".  Normally, ethnocentrism refers to the inability to consider another culture from any but the perspective of one's own culture. Western interpretations of Africa are replete with powerful examples - and social anthropologists have written some of them!  

The question I will ask you in return is:  How does charity advertising in American popular culture exploit ethnocentric beliefs about health, hygiene and nutrition.  Warning:  Your professor and you may not like the answers you find! if you try to address this question, your paper will NOT be politically correct!

Answer 2

you might write about the effects of colonialism on Africa

or about the waste that developing countries cause of which Africa is part of it!