Discussion Board : Race and Ethnicity

With nearly seven billion people on the planet, the world offers a fascinating array of human characteristics. Race refers to the inherited physical characteristics that distinguish one group from another.

These distinguishing characteristics include a variety of complexions, colors, and shapes. Although there have been significant strides in the understanding of race and racial equality, two myths of race are still common. One is the perception that some races are superior to others; the other is that "pure" races exist.

The idea of race remains a very real and powerful force throughout the world, shaping basic relationships between people in the United States and elsewhere.

Select one set of questions to respond to:

Racial, Ethnic, and Minority Groups

1a)Why do you think the term "minority" has persisted when the word "subordinate" is more descriptive?

1b)How do you describe your ethnicity? Do you include your family's country of origin? Do you consider yourself multiethnic? How does your ethnicity compare to that of the people you spend most of your time with?

Stereotypes, Prejudice, and Discrimination

2a) How does racial steering contribute to institutionalized racism?

2b)Give an example of stereotyping that you see in everyday life. Explain what would need to happen for this to be eliminated.

Theories of Race and Ethnicity

3a)Give three examples of white privilege. Do you know people who have experienced this? From what perspective?

3b)What is the worst example of culture of prejudice you can think of? What are your reasons for thinking it is the worst?

Intergroup Relationships

4a)Do you believe immigration laws should foster an approach of pluralism, assimilation, or amalgamation? Which perspective do you think is most supported by current U.S. immigration policies?

4b)Which intergroup relation do you think is the most beneficial to the subordinate group? To society as a whole? Why?

Race and Ethnicity in the United States

5a)In your opinion, which group had the easiest time coming to this country? Which group had the hardest time? Why?

5b)Which group has made the most socioeconomic gains? Why do you think that group has had more success than others?