Define the concepts of ethnocentrism and cultural relativism, and explain why cultural relativism is often used by sociologists.

Introduction

The purpose of this exercise is to help you understand the difference between taking an ethnocentric view of a behavior and taking a culturally relative view of a behavior, as well as understanding how ethnocentrism and cultural relativism shape our ethics. After reading the passage that follows these instructions, write your own response to the questions listed below. This should be in an essay format of 300 to 500 words. Please fully explain why you chose your answers as the grading examines your reasoning for choosing different answers. You can refer to your textbook or notes for this assignment. I encourage you to look at the grading rubric before starting the assignment.

Do the following:

Read the news story linked here (Links to an external site.)
Read ASA Code of Ethics: (see below)
Review the concepts of Ethnocentrism and Cultural Relativism from your text.
Instructions: After completing the reading, write an essay (300 to 500 words) in which you address the following questions:

Define the concepts of ethnocentrism and cultural relativism, and explain why cultural relativism is often used by sociologists.
In a paragraph in your essay, write an ethnocentric interpretation of the parents actions.
In a paragraph in your essay, write a culturally relative interpretation of the parents actions.
If you were a sociologist using the ASA Code of Conduct to advise the police on policing practice, explain which ethical principles might apply to this situation, and why.
In your view did the police officers behave ethically by removing the child and arresting the parents? Using what you have learned about ethics in sociology, explain why or why not?

The American Sociological Association’s (ASA’s) Code of Ethics sets forth the principles and ethical standards that underlie sociologists’ professional responsibilities and conduct. Some of the main principles include the following:

Principle A: Professional Competence

Sociologists strive to maintain high levels of competence in their work; they recognize the limitations of their expertise; and they undertake only those tasks for which they are qualified by education, training, or experience

Principle B: Integrity

Sociologists are honest, fair, and respectful of others in their professional activitiesin research, teaching, practice, and service.

Principle C: Professional and Scientific Responsibility

Sociologists adhere to the highest scientific and professional standards and accept responsibility for their work

Principle D: Respect for Peoples Rights, Dignity, and Diversity

Sociologists respect the rights, dignity, and worth of all people. They strive to eliminate bias in their professional activities, and they do not tolerate any forms of discrimination.

Principle E: Social Responsibility

Sociologists are aware of their professional and scientific responsibility to the communities and societies in which they live and work.

Principle F: Human Rights

In the course of their research, teaching, practice, and service, sociologists are committed to professional behaviors consistent with promoting the human rights of all people, including other sociologists. In their professional lives, sociologists strive to use their knowledge and skills to advance the cause of human rights worldwide.