Racism

What is Racism?

Simply put, racism is discriminating and prejudging a person or group of people based on their ethnicity. However, as concise as this definition may be, it only scratches the surface of describing the true social force of racism. Racism can be explicit and violent, or it can be implicit and subtle. It can be personal, or it can be structural. It can be rebelled against, or it can be internalized. It can take many forms, but in all cases it damages the dignity of entire societies and communities.

Key Terms

Prejudice
Discrimination
Race
Segregation
Bias
Xenophobia
Marginalized
Ethnicity
Intolerance
Eugenics
Hate crime
Genocide
Diversity
Homogeneous
Colorism
Internalized Racism
Racialisation

Use The Following Resources to Develop Your Understanding of Racism

Glad You Asked Season 2, Vox

This season of Glad You Asked by Vox explores the racial experience in America. Watch these videos and consider if there are any parallels in your own country.

This video explores Falguni Sheth's examination of race and politics. It's discusses some complex ideas, and it offers some interesting insights into the roots of racism and how political power possibly depends on racism for its survival.

Focus Questions

What is racialization?
How do sovereign powers racialize people?
What does it mean to say that race is a technology?

Racism, Law & Politics, PhilosophyTube

Implicit Bias Test

This is a test designed by Harvard University. It aims to identify any implicit biases that you may have. Take the test and reflect on the different ways that you might unconsciously be treating others based on their race. Is the test accurate? Can you ever avoid being biased?

Colorism, NCCJ

On this webpage, the National Conference for Community and Justice (NCCJ) has collected resources that explore the phenomenon of internalized racism and colorism. As you explore these resources, consider the reasons behind internalized racism.