What is Ethnicity?
how does it relate to
race?
situational
negotiation of
identity
ethnicity
is based on cultural similarities
and differences in a society or
nation
similarities are with
members of the same
ethnic group
the differences are
b/w the group
and “others”
ethnic group
share certain beliefs, values,
habits, customs, and norms
because of a common
background
define themselves as different
and special b/c of cultural
features
ethnicity exists
when people claim
a certain ethnic
identity for
themselves and are
defined by others
as having that
identity
Fredrik Barth
(1928-present)
identification
AND
exclusion
varies in intensity
changes over time
more than one group identity
status shifting
golfer
friend
ornithologist
status
any position that determines
where someone fits in
society
ascribed
social status
based on
little or no
choice
achieved
based on choice or
accomplishments
minority
groups
certain positions in sociopolitical hierarchy
majority
groups
when an ethnic group is
assumed to have a biological
basis
race
cultural category rather than
biological reality
discrimination against
such groups
racism
inequalities among “racial” groups
are not consequences of biological
inheritance but products of social,
economic, educational and political
circumstances
United States
Brazil
Japan
how is race culturally constructed
in the U.S.?
descent
social identity based on ancestry
hypodescent
children assigned to same group
as minority parent
Susie Guillory Phipps
case of
hypodescent
being
challenged
U.S. Census
2000
how is race culturally constructed
in Japan?
“intrinsic racism”
“pure blood”
belief that a (perceived) racial
difference is a sufficient reason to
value one person less than another
burakumin
residentially
segregated
how is race culturally constructed
in Brazil?
dress, behavior,
language…
United States
Brazil
Japan
Discussion of Essay #2
Due: Friday, October 1st
Midterm
In Class:
Wednesday, October 6th