Ethnocentrism, Racism, and Intercultural Communication of Maasai (Essay Sample)

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How and to what degree is this group affected by ethnocentrism or racism?
Ethnocentrism and racism have affected the masaai in so many ways. It has created an opinion that all the cows belong to them, which is why they raid other communities with cows. Ethnocentrism has also affected their interaction with other people creating adverse intercultural communication effects. It has also led to the growth of female genital mutilation, which is a disgusting act done to the masaai girls, which leads to death on most of them (Aktipis et al., pp354). However, racism and ethnocentrism have led to Maasai's low self-esteem in doing other things like attending colleges. This has affected the masaai so much because they have even been discriminated against for the same.
What stereotypes, positive or negative, are used to describe this culture?
A lot of cows are a stereotype that is used to describe the masaai. They believe that Enkai gave them cows, and that is why they own lots of cows. Their language also defines them. Masaai uses a specific language, and when one listens to them closely, they will tell that they are masaais (Aktipis et al., pp356). Another stereotype used to describe the masaai is the way they wear. Masaai wear shukas and their unique necklaces and bangles. These bangles and necklaces are made. They make beaded ornaments that are preferred as traditional artifacts. Even if a masaai has worn decent clothes, one will still find them with necklaces and bangles. Their music and dance also describe the masaai. They sing on call and response vocals and make guttural throat-singing sounds to provide rhythmic syncopation (Aktipis et al., pp357).
How is this culture portrayed in the media?
The images of the masaai fighter emphasized