Define and provide examples that explain and connect the concepts majority group, minority group, and labeling

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Suggested Response:
• A majority group is the group that has the power no matter the numbers of people in that group. In the United States the upper middle class, white, heterosexual, Christian male is considered the majority even though their numbers do not represent 51% of the US population.
• The minority group does not refer to numbers but to their limited power in society. Majority groups label minority groups. Minority groups can be identified according to differences based on age, marital status, parental status, educational status, geographic location, physical characteristics, and other factors that influence individual personality and behavior.
• This sets up artificial boundaries between the groups and allows the majority group to keep others in check through labeling.
• Labels are not only informal social labels that we call each other but sanctioned bureaucratic names that bring up powerful images. These have power because they are used by those in authority. The use of labels can change how we view certain groups. African American males may be referred to as "thugs," ‘gangstas," or "inner city youth." All of these bring up negative connotations.