Section Overview
This section delves into the dynamic constructs of race, ethnicity, sex, and gender, as well as the various sociological perspectives that frame our understanding of these elements. The social construction of race is explored, contrasting previous arbitrary racial classifications with current understandings based on superficial physical traits. Ethnicity is defined through the lens of shared culture, noting its evolution in parallel with societal and cultural norms. The intricate nature of identification categories is highlighted as the section explores minority groups, stereotypes, and the power dynamics leading to unequal treatment. Prejudice and discrimination are dissected, employing functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism to explicate these complex issues. Lastly, the section tackles the distinct definitions of sex and gender in sociology, exploring gender roles, sexual orientation, and their interplay with individuals’ identity formation.
Reading Assignment for Section 4.5
Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 4.5: Race, Ethnicity, and Gender.
What You Will Learn
In this section, you’ll explore the concept of race as a social construct and understand how classifications have changed over time. You’ll comprehend the concept of ethnicity and how it evolves alongside societal and cultural norms. Additionally, you’ll recognize the power dynamics involved in the formation and treatment of minority groups and the role of stereotypes in this process.
Student Learning Outcomes for Section 4.5
- SLO 1: Grasp the concept of race as a social construct and understand how classifications have changed over time.
- SLO 2: Comprehend the concept of ethnicity and how it evolves alongside societal and cultural norms.
- SLO 3: Recognize the power dynamics involved in the formation and treatment of minority groups and the role of stereotypes in this process.
- SLO 4: Understand prejudice and discrimination from functionalist, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionist perspectives.
- SLO 5: Distinguish between sex and gender in sociology, appreciating the roles of socialization, gender roles, and sexual orientation in identity formation.
Modification History File Created: 05/07/2023 Last Modified: 06/26/2023
This work is licensed under an Open Educational Resource-Quality Master Source (OER-QMS) License.
