What emotional attitude do individuals express when they believe their own race or culture is superior to others?

The emotional attitude expressed by individuals who believe their own race or culture is superior to others is ethnocentrism. This term captures the belief that one's own culture is the standard by which other cultures should be measured, often leading to a viewpoint that devalues different cultural practices and beliefs. Ethnocentrism can result in a lack of understanding and appreciation for the diversity of human experience, often fostering negative stereotypes and biases.

In contrast, xenophobia refers specifically to an irrational fear or dislike of people from other countries or cultures, which may stem from ethnocentric beliefs but is more about fear than superiority. Nationalism generally denotes a strong identification with and devotion to one’s nation, which can include pride in one's culture but doesn't necessarily imply a belief in superiority over others. Sectarianism is related to divisions based on religious or sectarian lines rather than race or culture, often manifesting in hostile attitudes toward members of other sects within the same religion. Each of these terms captures different but related concepts, emphasizing the distinctiveness of ethnocentrism in the context of perceived cultural superiority.