Race and ethnicity are social constructs used to categorize groups based on physical or cultural characteristics. An ethnic group shares cultural or nationality traits, while a race is deemed inferior or superior based on attributes like skin color or hair texture. In a society, the dominant group holds the most power and resources, while subordinate groups face disadvantages and discrimination due to their physical or cultural differences from the dominant group. To be considered a subordinate group, members must experience unequal treatment, have identifiable traits, not choose their status, recognize their subordination, and commonly intermarry within the group.

1. Race & Ethnicity
PART 1 – BASIC CONCEPTS
CHRISTINE MONNIER

2. Race & Ethnicity
Race is socially constructed.
A race is a category of people who have
been singled out as inferior or superior,
often on the basis of real or alleged
physical characteristics such as skin color,
hair texture, eye shape, or other
subjectively selected attributes.
An ethnic group is a collection of people
distinguished, by others or by themselves,
primarily on the basis of cultural or
nationality characteristics.

3. Dominant Group / Minority
A dominant group is a racial or ethnic
group that has the greatest power and
resources in a society.
A subordinate group is one whose
members, because of physical or
cultural characteristics, are
disadvantaged and subjected to
unequal treatment and discrimination
by the dominant group.
Privileges
Disadvantages

4. What Makes a Subordinate Group?
Members of a subordinate group
1. Endure unequal treatment and have
less power over their lives;
2. Have distinctive physical or cultural
traits;
3. Were placed in the subordinate group
involuntarily;
4. Are aware of their subordination;
5. Have a high rate of in-group marriage.