Discuss how psychologists have explained racism and the shortcomings of these explanations. How do sociologists explain racism?
What will be an ideal response?
The earliest research on prejudice and discrimination was conducted by psychologists. The presence of racism was dismissed as an expression of a personality disorder. Psychological approaches have been criticized for overlooking the context that gives shape to the beliefs and behaviors that underlie racism. These approaches also view racism as an abnormal condition when, in fact, large numbers of Americans throughout history have expressed racist thoughts and beliefs.
Sociologists feel that normative theories best explain the presence of racism. These theories posit that people learn the norms that operate in society at large. They consider the types of situations that encourage or give rise to prejudicial beliefs or discriminatory acts. Norms are seen early in people's development, in play patterns in children, when choosing partners for games.
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Opponents of multiculturalism argue that __________
A) it undermines the assimilation ethic B) it creates a common bond of identity C) teaches and maintains a group's own cultural customs D) it adds to the acculturation process
The unequal distribution of __________ and __________is a major contributor to health problems
Fill in the blanks with correct word
Which of the following is a reason for researchers to select samples to represent a population?
A. The population may be so large that it would be too expensive and time consuming to conduct the research. B. Using the whole population to conduct researches will yield inaccurate results. C. Samples are better for inductive reasoning-based researches, while the whole population can be used only for deductive reasoning-based researches. D. Samples are better as they use the concept of conventional wisdom over critical thinking. E. Samples yield more accurate results as they do not influence social policies.
Socialization concerning not only masculinity and femininity but also marriage and parenthood begins in childhood as a part of family life. Children observe their parents as they express affection, deal with finances, quarrel, complain about in-laws, and so forth. Which sociological perspective would be most interested in studying this?
A. functionalist perspective B. conflict perspective C. interactionist perspective D. global perspective