Race and Ethnic Problems

The Problems of Race and Ethnicity

SOC 402: Contemporary Social Problems and the Workplace - (BIE1032B)

Mary Wright

August 23rd, 2010

The Problems of Race and Ethnicity

Racial problems have been around since the beginning of times. Societies make themselves proud bases on their race, ethnic and cultural values. One of the social problems that we face worldwide is that many believe or think of certain races to be superior or to have greater capacities. Even though we might talk about equality, in reality, there are many differences among societies based on race, ethnic background, and culture. Unfortunately, these problems are not limited to the private life, but instead have greatly affected the work place and the meaning of being able to obtain fair and equal opportunity when citizens are in the quest for a job. The belief that some races are superior to other has created many social problems. These social problems have a negative effect in society particularly in the work place as it increases racism, it degrades the quality of life and it increases violation to human rights.

Racism increases as we face superiority of races. Racism “is the belief that the generic factors which constitute race are a primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial difference produce an inherent superiority of a particular race” (Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary). This in turn gives birth to discrimination, which directly affects the way we treat other humans because of their race, origin, culture and values. In the case of institutional racism, certain racial groups may be denied rights or benefits, or receive preferential treatment. American history is full of racism and violation of human rights. During this period of racial segregation in America, Blacks did not have the same right as Whites.. As we encourage and believe in the superiority of races, we are perpetuating the...