Understanding Race and Ethnic Relations

Book excerpt: For undergraduate and graduate introductory level courses in race and ethnic relations. Introducing the core theories, concepts, and issues concerning race and ethnic relations in the United States. Based on the top-selling title by the same author, Strangers to These Shores, this book provides a framework for understanding the interpersonal dynamics and the larger context of changing intergroup relations. Following a presentation of introductory concepts in the first chapter-particularly that of the stranger as a social phenomenon and the concept of the Dillingham Flaw-the first group of chapters examines differences in culture, reality perceptions, social class, and power as reasons for intergroup conflict. These chapters also look at the dominant group's varying expectations about how minorities should fit into its society. Chapters 2 and 3 include coverage of some middle-range conflict and interactionist theories. Chapters 4 and 5 explore the dimensions and interrelationships of prejudice and discrimination, and Chapter 6 covers the dominant-minority response patterns so common across different groups and time periods.This chapter presents middle-range conflict theories about economic exploitation too. Chapter 7 employs holistic sociological concepts in discussing ethnic consciousness; ethnicity as a social process; current racial and ethnic issues, fears, and reactions; and the various indicators of U.S. diversity in the 21st century.