Racism and Social Perspectives

The video explores the concepts of race and ethnicity, highlighting the differences between biological and sociological perspectives. It discusses personal experiences with racial perception, the impact of stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination, and the role of institutional racism. The video also examines race and ethnicity through sociological perspectives like functionalism, conflict, and interactionism, providing a comprehensive understanding of these complex social constructs.

How did biologists historically define race?

• Based on social constructs

• By examining DNA

• Using physical characteristics

• Through cultural identity

What is a key difference between race and ethnicity?

• Race is based on physical traits, while ethnicity is about cultural identity

• Race and ethnicity are the same

• Race is a social concept, while ethnicity is a biological concept

• Race is about cultural identity, while ethnicity is about physical traits

What can stereotypes lead to?

• Social harmony

• Cultural exchange

• Prejudice and discrimination

• Increased understanding

What is institutional racism?

• Racism that is only historical

• Racism that is no longer present

• Racism that occurs within institutions like banks and schools

• Racism practiced by individuals

What is the relationship between stereotypes and evidence?

• Stereotypes persist even after contrary evidence is presented

• Stereotypes disappear with evidence

• Stereotypes are unrelated to evidence

• Stereotypes are always based on evidence

How does the functionalist perspective view racial differences?

• As irrelevant to social structures

• As a means of creating conflict

• As purely biological

• As serving important functions for society

According to conflict theorists, what is a primary cause of racism?

• Cultural misunderstandings

• Economic and political power struggles

• Lack of education

• Genetic differences

What does the interactionist perspective focus on?

• Large-scale societal structures

• Biological differences

• Group interactions on a smaller scale

• Economic power dynamics

What role do racial labels play according to interactionism?

• They are only used in legal contexts

• They have no impact

• They serve as both inclusion and exclusion

• They are purely negative

What is a potential way to overcome racism according to the interactionist perspective?

• Relying on government intervention

• Ignoring racial differences

• Promoting open communication and equal opportunities

• Focusing solely on economic solutions