Jonathan has just met Carlos, a student from Brazil. He asks Carlos, "How do you like it here in America?" Carlos says, "I'm from America." What is illustrated by this exchange?
A) defensiveness on Carlos's part
B) ethnocentrism on Jonathan's part
C) language difficulty on Carlos's part
D) rudeness on Jonathan's part

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Carlos's response illustrates a common misunderstanding. In the United States, "America" is often used to refer specifically to the United States of America. However, in a broader sense, "America" refers to the continents of North and South America, which includes Brazil. Carlos's correction highlights this broader perspective, indicating Jonathan's ethnocentrism, or the belief that one's own culture or nation is superior to others.

Jonathan Has Just Met Carlos, a Student from Brazil