Question

Bill is a plant manager for an American firm doing business in an African country. Shortly after his employer transferred him to the African​ plant, he told his​ colleague, "I​ don't understand why Sonja​ [a worker from the local​ village] is upset. I treat her just like I do my American​ employees." Bill does not understand that his​ ___________ is the problem.

a) Collectivism
b) Egalitarianism
c) Parochialistic attitude
d) Paternalistic attitude
e) Ethnocentrism

Answer 1

The student's question regarding Bill's lack of understanding why a worker from the local village is upset suggests that Bill's ethnocentrism, the belief that one's own culture is superior, is the issue causing misunderstanding in the workplace.

Step-by-step explanation:

Bill does not understand that his ethnocentrism is the problem. Ethnocentrism involves a belief or attitude that one's own culture is better than all others, which can lead to misjudging and misunderstanding other cultures based on one's own cultural norms. For example, an American might see driving on the left-hand side of the road in England as 'wrong' rather than just different, or may consider the presence of dogs in French restaurants as strange because they are seen only as pets and not as food, unlike in some cultures where dog meat is consumed.

In the context of the workplace, ethnocentrism can be hurtful and detrimental, causing individuals from other cultures to feel mistreated or unwelcome. It can also reduce the effectiveness and success of multicultural teams. Curbing ethnocentrism is an important personal and societal goal, and it's crucial for inclusive and flourishing careers.