This paper attempts to describe the nature of common preconceptions, i.e. stereotypes, including concepts such as otherisation, prejudice and discrimination, how they influence communication and how they are created and reinforced by the media. Specific media examples are used for illustration.
The question is asked whether stereotyping is an inevitable process or whether it can be avoided. It is discussed whether stereotypes ought to be seen as a positive or negative influence on intercultural communication.
Finally, the essay attempts to determine the role stereotypes play in the study of intercultural communication. Some approaches to communication studies seek to discover average tendencies in national cultures, which can lead to similar categorisations and simplifications as in the process of stereotyping. The validity of such an approach is evaluated and the conclusion is reached that stereotypes and categorisations are necessary to a certain degree as a sense-making device, but should at the same time be regarded with great caution.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The nature of stereotypes
- Prejudice
- Discrimination
- Otherisation
- The Role of the Media
- Can Stereotyping be Avoided?
- Stereotypes as a Positive or Negative Influence on Intercultural Communication
- The Role of Stereotypes in the Study of Intercultural Communication
- Conclusion
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper aims to explore the nature of stereotypes in intercultural communication. It analyzes the origins and consequences of stereotypes, examining concepts such as otherization, prejudice, and discrimination. The paper also investigates the role of the media in shaping and reinforcing stereotypes and explores the potential for avoiding or mitigating their negative effects.
- The nature of stereotypes and their origins in social categorization
- The relationship between stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination, and otherization
- The role of the media in shaping and reinforcing stereotypes
- The possibility of avoiding or mitigating the negative effects of stereotypes
- The role of stereotypes in the study of intercultural communication
Chapter Summaries
- Introduction: This chapter introduces the topic of stereotypes in intercultural communication and defines the scope of the paper. It clarifies the meaning of intercultural communication and establishes the key concepts that will be explored throughout the study.
- The nature of stereotypes: This chapter defines stereotypes and discusses their origin in social categorization. It explains how stereotypes function as simplified representations of individuals or groups, leading to the reduction of complexity and the activation of pre-existing associations.
- Prejudice: This chapter explores the concept of prejudice, its connection to stereotypes, and its various forms. It discusses the role of negative emotions and the tendency towards ingroup favoritism. The chapter also examines the evolution of prejudice in contemporary society.
- Discrimination: This chapter examines discrimination as a consequence of prejudice. It describes how stereotypes and negative feelings can lead to discriminatory behavior, highlighting different levels of discrimination: interpersonal, intergroup, and institutional. The chapter also discusses the role of cultural context in perpetuating discriminatory practices.
Keywords
This paper focuses on the concepts of stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination, otherization, social categorization, and intercultural communication. It examines the role of the media in shaping and reinforcing stereotypes and explores the potential for avoiding or mitigating their negative effects. The study also considers the implications of stereotypes for the study of intercultural communication and their impact on understanding cultural differences.
- Quote paper
- Eva-Maria Kaufmann (Author), 2011, Stereotypes in Intercultural Communication, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/209092
