Spotlight on Students: Cultural Relativism vs. Ethnocentrism

This post highlights the work required of my SA 202: Introduction to Anthropology students. Students were given the opportunity to explore a different culture through two lenses, cultural relativism and ethnocentrism, and through this exercise learn about themselves and the other culture. Several students were given the opportunity to have their exemplary work featured on the blog, and the students who provided permission have their work featured here in this and the following blog posts. Please show your appreciation for their work through the comments.

A young man gets covered in spices during the Pebersvend tradition (Source: Russell, 2016)

 

By: August Forck

Every country has its own unique culture and customs. Some countries have traditions that are products of, and beneficial to, their environments. Other traditions may seem arbitrary or silly to those unfamiliar with those customs. Regardless, those traditions are an important part of a country’s culture. This essay will seek to establish the difference between cultural relativism and ethnocentrism as it relates to tradition. To do this, we will look at a tradition from Denmark and define both cultural relativism and ethnocentrism through hypothetical reactions to this tradition.

Denmark has a very unique way of celebrating birthdays, reminiscent of hazing rituals in American fraternities and sororities. According to an article from The Telegraph, Danish birthdays are celebrated with a barrage of baking ingredients. Dating back hundreds of years, this tradition involves showering one’s friends and family in egg whites and spices, especially, it appears, cinnamon (Russell 2016). According to the article, the tradition began with Danish spice salesmen, who “were so busy travelling [sic] around, selling their wares, that they had very little time for dating” (Russell 2016, page 1). The Pebersvends tradition, which translates to something along the lines of “Pepper Dudes,” is meant to mock that perpetual unmarried status those traders experienced and playfully remind current Danes about their dating life (Russell 2016). It is a tradition that is all in good fun, though, and is not meant to hurt feelings.

Upon learning about customs as silly sounding as this, some people would sneer at such a thought and would compare such traditions to those from their own country. They might think that their own birthday traditions are more important or serious or just better for some reason or another. Those people might seek to “correct” Danish citizens, trying to get them to abandon their traditions in favor of that person’s own customs. This view is known as ethnocentrism, which is “the attitude that one’s own group, ethnicity, or nationality is superior to others” (“Ethnocentrism Definition & Meaning,” N.D., page 1). Ethnocentrism, while not necessarily inherently negative, is an attitude that can lead to annexation and assimilation, ethnic cleansing, and the destruction of priceless cultural aspects if not kept in check.

For example, an ethnocentric view of the Danish tradition might be something like this: I, an American, see some Danish people out celebrating a birthday by absolutely marinating their friend in cinnamon, clove, and other spices. To me, this looks incredibly wasteful, and though they appear to be having a good time, I think that they are making themselves look ridiculous. With an ethnocentric attitude, I would reflect on the vast superiority of blowing out a bunch of candles on a cake and wearing a little paper cone on my head all day. That is not wasteful or silly-looking. If I was a jerk, I would take that thinking even a step further and try to intervene with the birthday celebrations of the Danish folks to correct the way that they are celebrating. That line of thinking might seem ridiculous in this case, but ethnocentric ideas like that have been used to destroy countless customs and cultures in the past through actions like colonialism.

The flip side of this idea is called cultural relativism. This is an attitude that recognizes and respects the differences between cultures; in essence, it is “the view that ethical and social standards reflect the cultural context from which they are derived” (“Cultural Relativism,” N.D., page 1). In the same scenario as before, cultural relativism can be used to come to a much different conclusion. In the Pebersvend case, I might see this Danish celebration and recognize that although it is much different from a typical birthday celebration in the United States, it is a tradition that is entrenched in their culture with a long historical context. Rather than viewing this custom as ridiculous, I would see that these people are having fun and celebrating their friend’s birthday in a way that is special to them, and I would go about my day without saying anything more about it. In fact, I might be excited to have learned something new.

These two reactions, cultural relativism and ethnocentrism, are opposite. Obviously, the more ethical of these two ideas is cultural relativism. However, pride in one’s own traditions and culture exhibited in ethnocentrism is also important. Going back to the two scenarios, I am allowed to think that their tradition is a little wasteful, and I can definitely prefer my own way of celebrating without trying to inflict my own traditions on others. The goal when interacting with people whose views or culture are different from one's own should always be to learn and understand that new culture. Cultural relativism should be what each person strives for, in the end.

Works Cited

“Cultural Relativism.” No Date. Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs, Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs, www.carnegiecouncil.org/explore-engage/key-terms/cultural-relativism.

“Ethnocentrism Definition & Meaning.” No Date. Merriam-Webster, Merriam Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ethnocentrism.

Russell, Helen. “Single in Denmark? Prepare for Birthday Spice Attacks.” The Telegraph, Telegraph Media Group, 4 March 2016, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/expat/life/single-in-denmark-prepare-for-birthday-spice-attacks/.

 

 

 

Spotlight on Students: Cultural Relativism vs. Ethnocentrism

This post highlights the work required of my SA 202: Introduction to Anthropology students. Students were given the opportunity to explore a different culture through two lenses, cultural relativism and ethnocentrism, and through this exercise learn about themselves and the other culture. Several students were given the opportunity to have their exemplary work featured on the blog, and the students who provided permission have their work featured here in this and the following blog posts. Please show your appreciation for their work through the comments.

 

Young woman being covered in spices as part of the Pebersvend tradition (Source: Russell 1)

By: Donovan Joyner

Cultural practices can vary widely, and encountering traditions from other cultures can lead to moments of confusion or reflection. The article “Single in Denmark? Prepare for Birthday Spice Attacks” by Helen Russell explores the Danish tradition of throwing cinnamon on individuals who remain single at the age of 25. The article recounts the experience of a British gentleman who, while meeting a friend for coffee in Denmark, witnessed this tradition for the first time. Initially confused, he sought an explanation from his friend and later concluded that the practice was simply “an excuse to cut loose and go crazy for a day” (Russell 1). This practice has roots in the 16th century when spice salesmen focused on earning a living, often delaying marriage. Today, the tradition continues as a lighthearted celebration of singlehood.  The British gentleman's reaction demonstrates the complexity of interpreting cultural practices, as people often approach unfamiliar traditions through either an ethnocentric or a culturally relativistic lens.

According to Worthy et al., ethnocentrism “is the tendency to look at the world primarily from the perspective of one’s own culture. Part of ethnocentrism is the belief that one’s own race,ethnic or cultural group is the most important or that some or all aspects of its culture are superior to those of other groups.” For instance, Rachel Rummel notes in her “Pebersvend” article that many cultures, including Denmark, “expect individuals to leave their birth families and start their own upon reaching the appropriate age.” If someone were to believe that this is the only correct way for people to live, they would be exhibiting an ethnocentric perspective.

Worthy et al. state in their “Ethnocentrism and Cultural Relativism” article that cultural relativism is “the principle of regarding and valuing the practices of a culture from the point of view of that culture and to avoid making hasty judgments.”Cultural relativism acknowledges that there are many valid ways of living and interacting with the world. For example, the Britishgentleman’s conclusion that the Danish tradition is “an excuse to cut loose and go crazy for a day” (Russell 1) reflects a culturally relativistic attitude, a point that will be expanded upon further below.

An ethnocentric interpretation of the cinnamon-throwing tradition might focus on dismissing it as bizarre or meaningless. For instance, someone with this perspective might argue that such a practice is childish or a waste of time and suggest that single individuals should focus on dating or using apps like Tinder to find a partner, as is common in United Kingdom (UK) cultures. This mindset assumes that the UK approach to singlehood is superior, while refusing to acknowledge the significance of the Danish tradition within its cultural context.

On the other hand, a culturally relativistic interpretation would approach the tradition with curiosity and respect. The British gentleman exemplified this when he asked his friend for an explanation and listened to the reasoning behind the custom. By learning that the tradition originated from 16th-century spice salesmen who delayed marriage due to their work, he was able to view it as a meaningful celebration of Danish heritage and singlehood. His statement that it is “an excuse to cut loose and go crazy for a day” (Russell 1) shows his acceptance of the tradition as a fun and unique way to mark an important milestone, even if it differs from the practices he is accustomed to.

Reflecting on the scenario, I initially found myself reacting with an ethnocentric perspective. Like the British gentleman, I questioned why anyone would engage in such a tradition as it seemed unusual and far removed from my own cultural experiences. However, after learning about its historical context and its role in Danish culture, I began to appreciate the tradition as a celebration of individuality and heritage. This shift in perspective reminded me of my time in the military, where certain traditions such as promotion ceremonies or symbolic rituals might seem odd to outsiders but hold deep meaning for those involved. Similarly, Danish cinnamon throwing may appear strange at first glance, but understanding its origins highlights its value as a shared cultural experience.

Ultimately, the difference between an ethnocentric and a culturally relativistic mindset lies in one’s willingness to seek context and understanding. Ignorance and judgment often stem from a lack of knowledge, but by asking questions and exploring the reasoning behind cultural practices, we can develop a greater appreciation for the diversity of human traditions. The Danish cinnamon throwing tradition, while unfamiliar to many, serves as a reminder of the importance of celebrating life’s milestones in ways that reflect a community’s unique history and values.

Works Cited

Russell, Rachel. “It’s Tradition to Attack Unwed Danes with Spice on Their Birthdays.” Atlas Obscura, Atlas Obscura, 26 Sept. 2018, www.atlasobscura.com/foods/pebersvend-birthday-spice-attack.

Russell, Helen. “Single in Denmark? Prepare for Birthday Spice Attacks.” The Telegraph, Telegraph Media Group, 4 Mar. 2016, www.telegraph.co.uk/expat/life/single-in-denmark-prepare-for-birthday-spice-attacks/.

Worthy, L D, et al. “Ethnocentrism and Cultural Relativism.” Culture and Psychology, MMOER, 3 July 2025, open.maricopa.edu/culturepsychology/chapter/ethnocentrism-and-cultural-relativism/

 

A man is tied to a pole while being doused with spices in the Pebersvend tradition (Source: Google Images)

By: Hannah Heisler

Throughout a person’s life, they are introduced to new ideas, devices, styles, foods, methods, and traditions. Within the first few seconds to minutes of experiencing something new, people develop certain thoughts or feelings towards this new thing, whatever it may be. When an individual is presented with something new or that is different from what they regularly experience, there are two different categories that their reactions could be divided into. With or without realizing it, a person may experience feelings or thoughts that categorize their response as either ethnocentric or culturally relativistic. After reading the following paragraphs individuals will be informed of the differences between these responses, and said individuals should be able to determine which category their response falls into. 

Individuals often tend to show some bias in preferring the way that they do things rather than how others do them. People become set in their own behaviors and beliefs because that is what they know and are used to, and there is nothing wrong with that. However, an individual’s feelings towards someone who has different behaviors or beliefs become ethnocentric when they start to view their own ways as the best and judge other people’s ways. Therefore, ethnocentrism is defined as a person’s inclination to judge another culture’s behaviors or beliefs while viewing their own as superior (Gezon & Kottak, 2012). For example, if a person was offered Chinese food and thought of it as disgusting and something they would never eat, that person’s view would be categorized as ethnocentric.  

On the other hand, there are other people who might be open to or even eager to try it. Some people are more open to trying culturally different foods, styles, or behaviors, that might be better or more efficient, while still valuing their own culturally set ways. Cultural relativism is described as the view that there is no superior culture, every culture and their values deserve respect, and the differing cultures should not be judged because of their differences but rather understood (Gezon & Kottak, 2012). Therefore, in contradiction to the last example, if someone is offered Chinese food and they are the ones who are open and/or eager to try it, their response would be categorized as culturally relativistic. Additionally, an individual feeling indifferent towards a culturally different practice could also be categorized as culturally relativistic, as well as those who could be harmed by whatever they may have the opportunity of trying or experiencing from a differing culture.  

There are many shared and differing cultural traditions across the world that are viewed as unique to some but completely common to others. One example of this would be the “Birthday Spice Attacks” in Denmark that involve 25-year-old single men, known as Pebersvends, and women, Pebermøs, being showered in spices by their friends on their birthday. This tradition is not new to Danish culture as it began sometime around the 16^th Century when Danish spice salesmen were so bust traveling and selling spices that there was no time for dating. Often, these men never found a significant other and since then, young single Danes have been showered with spices on milestone birthdays to taunt them with the possibility of being single for life. After being “cinnamon-d”, all participants go get drunk. While some may view this as harsh or as a punishment for being single, the Danish view it as an excuse to “cut loose and go crazy for the day (Russell, 2016)!” 

There are many ways that the Pebersvends tradition could be interpreted. An individual with an ethnocentric interpretation of this event would react with feelings of disgust, negative judgement, or refusal to ever participate in this tradition. Additionally, if a person’s opinion or judgement is influenced by their own cultural view that it is common to be single at that age, that reaction would also be viewed as ethnocentric. A lack of understanding or wanting to understand this tradition fosters not only an ethnocentric view of the tradition but also a lack of appreciation for this Danish tradition and culture. Ethnocentrism can lead to prejudice and a less inclusive community worldwide. However, there is still hope for those who are culturally relativistic.  

A person who reacts to the Pebersvends tradition with indifference, curiosity, or a desire to participate would have a culturally relativistic interpretation of this tradition. Someone could also have a culturally relativistic interpretation of this tradition if they attempt to find out and understand the practice of this tradition through the Danish culture. In contrast to the ethnocentric interpretation, culturally relativistic interpretations build a more respectful and appreciative society. Additionally, cultural relativity contributes to positive interactions between cultures, specifically, in this instance, positive responses towards differing traditions.  

After reflecting on both interpretations of the Pebersvend tradition, I must admit that I immediately thought of my own friends in the sense that we are always looking for an excuse to have a good time. Therefore, I would be eager to cut loose and throw some spices, which would be a culturally relativistic interpretation (Russell, 2016). Additionally, if it were my own cultural tradition, I would hope that most people would be open to trying it out or at least understanding it rather than judging it. I am not a confrontational person, and to me, the previously described ethnocentric reaction gives off the sense that the individual with that interpretation believes their ways are superior. Speaking from a small-town experience, it is a lot more pleasant to be around individuals who appreciate differing cultures than it is to be around those who judge them! 

 

References 

Gezon, L and C Kottak. 2012. Culture. New York: McGraw-Hill. 

Russell, H. (2016, March 4). Single in Denmark? Prepare for Birthday Spice Attacks. The Telegraph.