Race (genetically inherited): A category of people who are regarded as socially distinct because they share genetically transmitted physical characteristics.
Ethnic Group
(culturally learned): A category of people who are regarded as socially distinct because they share a cultural heritage.
Minority
: 3 characteristics
They are recognizably different from the rest of society either physically or culturally.
They are treated differently by majority group members because of these differences.
They are aware of their differential treatment which could be interpreted as consciousness of group membership.
Racism
Racism: the belief that one racial or ethnic group is inferior to another and that unequal treatment is therefore justified, natural, and right.
Individual Racism
: acts by individuals which cause death, injury, or violent destruction of property.
Institutional Racism
: it originates in the operation of established and respected forces in the society. It is less identifiable in terms of specific individuals committing the acts.
Discrimination (Action)
Discrimination: the differential or unequal treatment of the members of some group or category based on group membership, not individual qualities.
B. Requirements:
One must recognize the differences.
One must be in a position to distribute and withhold rewards and punishments. One must have power or control of society’s resources.
Prejudice (Attitude)
Prejudice: interpersonal hostility that is directed against individuals based on their membership in a minority group. Prejudice is learned.
Stereotypes
(negative beliefs): beliefs that we hold regarding the members of a group. They are often overgeneralized to the extent that no members can avoid inclusion.
Relationship Between Discrimination (action) and Prejudice (attitude)
Prejudice is taught. It can be thought of as a mechanism for the maintenance of discrimination. However, people don’t have to be in the position to discriminate in order to be prejudiced.