Description This test covers materials from Chapters 2, 3, 4 and 5 of the discussions.Book: Race & Ethnic Relations American AND Global Perspectives/ 10th Edition. Author: Martin N. Marger a) Read th

Expert Solution Preview

Introduction:
In this essay, we will discuss the question “Can racial and ethnic groups assimilate into American society based on Gordon’s seven phases of assimilation?” We will analyze Gordon’s seven phases of assimilation and explore whether racial and ethnic groups, such as African Americans and Native Americans, can assimilate into American society based on these phases.

Answer:
Gordon’s seven phases of assimilation provide a framework to understand the process by which immigrant groups integrate into the dominant culture. According to Gordon, these phases are: cultural assimilation, structural assimilation, marital assimilation, identification assimilation, attitude receptional assimilation, behavior receptional assimilation, and civic assimilation. Each phase represents different aspects of assimilation, including the adoption of the dominant culture’s language, values, behaviors, and integration into social and political institutions.

When considering racial and ethnic groups, particularly African Americans and Native Americans in the United States, the question of their ability to assimilate based on Gordon’s seven phases becomes more complex. Historically, African Americans and Native Americans have faced systemic racism and discrimination, which have hindered their ability to fully assimilate into American society.

Gordon’s assumptions regarding the assimilation of African Americans in the USA were based on the idea that they would go through the same process as other immigrant groups. However, he failed to acknowledge the unique historical context and ongoing racial oppression faced by African Americans. This assumption neglects the fact that African Americans have been forcibly brought to America as slaves and have experienced generations of marginalization, segregation, and unequal treatment.

In my view, the emerging global economy does not necessarily demand assimilation into one dominant culture. Globalization has brought about increased cultural diversity and interconnectedness, allowing for the coexistence and preservation of various cultures. Rather than assimilation, the global economy encourages the appreciation and inclusion of diverse perspectives and contributions.

Sociologists define assimilation as the process by which individuals or groups acquire the cultural traits of the dominant society. It involves adopting the language, values, customs, behaviors, and social norms of the dominant culture. Minority groups are those who have less power and influence within a society, while majority groups hold more power and privilege. In the context of race and ethnicity in American society, minority groups, such as African Americans, Native Americans, and Hispanic Americans, face structural barriers and discrimination that limit their access to resources and opportunities.

Minority groups often face disadvantages in areas such as education, employment, housing, and healthcare. They may also experience social exclusion, prejudice, and stereotypes. Majority groups, on the other hand, hold social, economic, and political advantages and have the power to shape societal norms, institutions, and policies. This power imbalance allows majority groups to exert influence over minority groups in America.

When comparing the key ideas of one sociological and one psychological theory of prejudice or discrimination, we can consider the social identity theory (sociological) and the cognitive theory (psychological). The social identity theory posits that prejudice and discrimination arise from individuals’ need to enhance their self-esteem and maintain a positive social identity. This theory suggests that individuals derive their self-worth and identity from their affiliation with particular social groups. Prejudice and discrimination can occur when individuals perceive their group as superior to other groups.

On the other hand, the cognitive theory explains prejudice as a result of cognitive processes such as categorization and stereotyping. According to this theory, individuals simplify the complexity of the social world by categorizing people into groups based on salient features such as race or ethnicity. Stereotypes are generalized beliefs or expectations about members of a particular group, which can lead to biased judgments and discriminatory behavior.

Applying these theories to prejudice against one ethnic group in American society, let’s consider prejudice against Hispanic Americans. From a sociological perspective, prejudice against Hispanic Americans can be understood as a result of social categorization and the desire to maintain a positive social identity. Individuals may perceive their own social group as superior and discriminate against Hispanics to enhance their own self-esteem and maintain a positive image of their group.

From a psychological perspective, prejudice against Hispanic Americans can be attributed to cognitive processes, such as stereotyping. Stereotypes about Hispanics, such as being lazy or criminals, can lead to biased judgments and discriminatory behavior. These stereotypes are perpetuated through media representations and societal narratives, influencing individuals’ perceptions and attitudes towards Hispanic Americans.

In conclusion, based on Gordon’s seven phases of assimilation, racial and ethnic groups, such as African Americans and Native Americans, face unique challenges in assimilating into American society. Historical and ongoing systemic racism and discrimination have hindered their ability to fully adopt the dominant culture’s language, values, and behaviors. While the emerging global economy does not demand assimilation into one dominant culture, it encourages the appreciation and inclusion of diverse perspectives. Minority and majority groups in American society exhibit power imbalances, with majority groups having influence over minority groups. Sociological and psychological theories help explain the origins of prejudice and discrimination, which can be applied to understand prejudice against specific ethnic groups in American society, such as Hispanic Americans.