Analyzing Ethnocentrism and its impact on The Karate Kid (2010) Klip : Dre's First Rui - In With Cheng

Analyzing Ethnocentrism and Its Impact on The Karate Kid (2010) Klip: Dre's First Rui-In With Cheng

Introduction
In the film 'The Karate Kid' (2010), the protagonist, Dre Parker, faces a major challenge when he moves from the United States to Beijing, China, with his mother. This transition is marked by cultural differences and social dynamics that highlight the theme of ethnocentrism. Ethnocentrism, the belief in the superiority of one's own culture, often leads to discrimination and social exclusion against those perceived as outsiders. In this analysis, we will explore how Dre's early experiences in China, particularly his encounter with Cheng and his gang, illustrate ethnocentric attitudes and their impact on Dre's ability to adapt to his new environment.

This theme is particularly relevant in today's globalized world, where cross-cultural interactions are more common, yet cultural misunderstandings and biases remain prevalent. Through Dre's experiences, the film sheds light on how deeply ingrained ethnocentric attitudes can create barriers to communication and mutual respect.

Ethnocentrism is the belief or attitude that one's own culture, values, and norms are superior to those of others. People with ethnocentric views tend to judge other cultures based on the standards of their own, often leading to prejudice, misunderstanding, and rejection of cultural differences. Several factors can trigger ethnocentrism. One major cause is a lack of education and intercultural awareness, which makes individuals more prone to stereotyping and misjudging others. A sense of cultural superiority can also lead people to view different traditions as inferior or wrong. Negative personal experiences with members of other cultural groups may reinforce biased perceptions. In addition, growing up in a closed environment where diversity is not introduced or accepted can foster ethnocentric attitudes from an early age. Extreme nationalism can escalate into ethnocentrism when love for one's country turns into hostility toward others. The media also plays a role---biased or stereotypical portrayals of certain groups can deepen misconceptions. Finally, fear of change or the loss of cultural identity often causes people to resist intercultural interactions, seeing them as threats. Understanding these triggers is crucial for promoting empathy, tolerance, and inclusive social environments.

Analysis and Findings:
From the video the karate kid (2010) - dre's first run-in with cheng we found ethnocentrism. In those klip from the karate kid (2010) show the scene where Dre as the main character of the film just arrived at Beijing, China. He moved to China with his mother, and on the first day of their movement Dre tried to socialize in his new place to get some friends. At the beginning, it ran smoothly because Dre has a new friend named Harry that introduced him to the other---Harry not Chinese and fluent in speaking English so it's very helpful for Dre. Then Dre tried to reach out to a Chinese girl and get nice feedback from her, but suddenly there's a boy named Cheng and his gank that ruins this moment. Cheng feels that he'e superior because he belongs to the majority here in his country and he sees Dre as a minority that is different from them

This interaction reveals not only Cheng's personal prejudices but also a broader social commentary on how dominant cultural groups often enforce unspoken boundaries. By asserting his dominance and discouraging interaction with outsiders, Cheng is reinforcing a system where cultural purity or superiority is maintained through exclusion..

Ethnocentric Attitude
Cheng is being ethnocentric here, he feels that he is more powerful and stronger than Dre because he belongs to the majority, so Cheng feels powerful. Cheng also feels that he's dominant here, since it's happening in Cheng's hometown and Dre is new here. Cheng wants to maintain social dominance here. Cheng and friends show disrespect to Dre because he is not part of their community---this is one of characteristic ethnocentrism.

This behavior illustrates how ethnocentrism can be expressed not just through words, but also through physical actions and social behavior. Cheng's attempt to "protect" the in-group by rejecting Dre exemplifies the fear or discomfort that some individuals feel when confronted with cultural differences.

Superiority
Dre faced discrimination from Cheng just because he tried to reach out with a girl named Meilin. Cheng and friends being arrogant and brutal by attacking Dre in public space shows that they feel superior. They support Cheng to hit Dre and shout at him.

The aggressive behavior also reflects toxic masculinity and the use of violence as a means to establish dominance. Ethnocentrism, in this context, is intertwined with social power dynamics where cultural and gender superiority are asserted simultaneously.

Impacts
From all the incidents that Dre experienced on the first day of his move to China, it caused several impacts on his life. Due to the ethnocentric attitudes from Cheng and his friends---such as discrimination and rejection---Dre feels uncomfortable, afraid to socialize, and unwelcome in his new environment. It also made it difficult for him to socialize and adapt to his school due to the rejection and discrimination.

Conclusion
The events that unfold during Dre's first day in Beijing serve as a poignant illustration of ethnocentrism and its detrimental effects on individuals from minority backgrounds. Cheng's behavior, rooted in a sense of superiority and dominance, not only reflects his ethnocentric attitude but also creates an environment of hostility and rejection for Dre. As a result, Dre experiences feelings of discomfort, fear, and isolation, which hinder his ability to socialize and adapt to his new surroundings. This analysis underscores the importance of understanding and addressing ethnocentrism in fostering inclusive communities, where individuals from diverse backgrounds can coexist and thrive without fear of discrimination or exclusion. Ultimately, "The Karate Kid" serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those who navigate cultural differences and the need for empathy and understanding in overcoming such barriers.
Importantly, the film also suggests a path forward---through intercultural understanding, resilience, and mentorship (as seen later in Mr. Han's guidance), individuals can overcome the barriers created by ethnocentrism. Dre's journey evolves from isolation to empowerment, showing that with empathy and support, integration is possible.

This analysis underscores the importance of understanding and addressing ethnocentrism in fostering inclusive communities, where individuals from diverse backgrounds can coexist and thrive without fear of discrimination or exclusion. Ultimately, The Karate Kid serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those who navigate cultural differences and the need for empathy and understanding in overcoming such barriers.