Sociologists define prejudice as a cultural attitude, either positive or negative, that is directed towards members of a certain group. Sociologists explain the causes of prejudice using three main theoretical perspectives: functionalist theory, symbolic interaction theory, and conflict theory (Anderson & Taylor, 2008).
The functionalist theory states that in order for ethnic and racial relationships to maintain stability within a society, ethnic and racial minorities must assimilate into that society (Anderson & Taylor, 2008). This requires the minority to integrate socially, economically, and culturally within the mainstream society. Ethnic and minority groups are forced to lose much of their native culture in this process.
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The second sociological theory outlined by Anderson and Taylor (2008) is the symbolic interaction theory. This theory addresses both how ethnicity is socially constructed as well as what role social interaction plays in reducing ethnic and racial hostility. Embedded within this theory is Allport’s contact theory. This theory posits that interaction between Caucasians and minorities reduces prejudice from both groups, but only if certain requirements are met (Hewstone and Swart, 2011).
Conflict theory is the third sociological theory addressed by Anderson and Taylor (2008). This theory suggests that conflict within societal classes is a necessary part of social interaction. Therefore, conflict theorists argue that in order to lessen ethnic and racial conflict, class inequality must be addressed and reduced. According to Anderson and Taylor (2008), sociologists are still trying to determine whether class or race is more important when determining inequality, or whether they are of equal value in the discussion.
Anderson and Taylor (2008) also outlined various forms of racism that occur in society. They describe overt racism as racism that is obvious and unconcealed. It is based on skin color and ethnicity. Overt racism may involve physical assaults including beatings and lynchings. This type of racism is explicitly on display for society to witness and tends to target an individual. While the authors note that this type of racism has declined since the 1950s, it has unfortunately not disappeared altogether.
While overt racism is typically a blatant act, institutional racism is more subtle. It is based on race, geography, and class. Anderson and Taylor (2008) point out that institutional racism occurs when a group of people is treated negatively due to their collective race. This mistreatment could come at the hands of a government agency, school, business, or court of law. Sociologists believe that this type of racism leads to inequality between groups, resulting in unequal treatment and/or statuses.
With the spread of political correctness and the establishment of hate crime laws, subtle racism continues to be an issue throughout society. In terms of the government, this has taken the shape of voter suppression laws, racial profiling, and unfair sentencing laws. Institutional racism continues in the business world as well, with redlining practices limiting opportunities for minorities.
In conclusion, while society has steadily moved away from more overt examples of racism, unfounded prejudice and subtle forms of racism continue to exist. Society should continue to move in the direction of reducing inequalities so that all groups are capable of achieving success and happiness.
- Anderson, M.L., & Taylor, H. F. (2008). Sociology: Understanding a diverse society (4th ed.). Belmont, CA: Thomson Higher Education.
- Hewstone, M., & Swart, H. (2011). Fifty-odd years of inter-group contact: From hypothesis to integrated theory. British Journal of Social Psychology, 50(3), 374-386.
