Understanding Race and Ethnicity

The video explores the concept of race as a socially constructed category, examining how it differs from ethnicity. It discusses the historical and cultural contexts that shape our understanding of race and ethnicity, highlighting the impact on social outcomes and power dynamics. The video also explains the racial categories used by the US Census and how these definitions have evolved over time.

What is often the primary focus when people describe race?

• Religious beliefs

• Physical appearances

• Language spoken

• Cultural background

Why is race considered a social construct?

• Because it is based on eye color

• Because it is defined by societal importance of certain traits

• Because it is purely biological

• Because it is universally consistent

What is an example of inconsistent application of racial traits?

• Eye color differences

• Religious practices

• The one-drop rule in the United States

• Language differences

What distinguishes ethnicity from race?

• Ethnicity is based on skin color

• Ethnicity is based on cultural traits

• Ethnicity is based on eye color

• Ethnicity is based on physical traits

Which term refers to someone from a Spanish-speaking country?

• Latino

• Hispanic

• Asian

• African American

How do race and ethnicity influence social outcomes?

• They only influence income

• They affect education, income, and criminal justice experiences

• They only influence education

• They have no influence

What defines a minority group in sociology?

• The size of the group

• The group's education level

• Physical or cultural traits and lower societal status

• The group's income level

Which racial category includes people of Middle Eastern descent according to the US Census?

• Asian

• Black or African American

• Native Hawaiian

• White

What is the largest subgroup of Asian Americans?

• Chinese

• Indian

• Vietnamese

• Japanese

What is the significance of the 'Some Other Race' category in the US Census?

• It includes people who do not fit into other categories

• It is the largest racial category

• It is based on eye color

• It is based on language spoken