W14.1 June 3rd（Monday）JIA YUAN

 1、Summary

Race refers to the concept that distinguishes groups of humans based on actual or imagined physical differences (such as skin color, facial features, etc.), often specified externally. While early racial classifications were rooted in biology, the modern view sees race as more of a social construct, affecting social identity and status. Ethnic groups, by contrast, focus more on culture and a shared past. Racial classification evolved over time, moving from essentialism and taxonomy to a socially constructed understanding. Race remains an important social and political issue in modern society, but its scientific validity has been questioned.

2、Interesting place

The interesting thing about the concept of race is that it is both rooted in history and constantly evolving. Although scientific research shows that race has no biological basis, it still profoundly affects human society as a social construct. The evolution of racial classifications shows how humans interpret physical differences through different cultural, historical, and social contexts. In the United States and Brazil, for example, although racial classifications exist in both countries, the specific criteria and social implications are very different. These differences reveal that race is not only an instrument of identity, but also an invisible means of power and resource allocation. The history and present situation of race reflects how humans shape and reshape the identities of themselves and others through social, political, and economic forces.

3、problem

How do laws and policies in different countries affect racial classification and interracial relations?



Comments

  1. Cheng YatingJune 6, 2024 at 10:47 PM

    In some countries, policies like affirmative action and anti-discrimination laws promote racial equality and protect minority rights, fostering more inclusive and harmonious interracial relations. Conversely, countries with histories of segregation, apartheid, or systemic racism may have laws that reinforce racial hierarchies and perpetuate discrimination, leading to tension and conflict between racial groups. The way governments define and categorize race in official documents and censuses also influences social perceptions and the allocation of resources, affecting how individuals and groups are viewed and treated within society.

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Spirit Behind Wikipedia: Collaboration, Talk, and Trust- WANG YIKE 2.1

In a world overflowing with online information, Wikipedia stands out—not just for its vast range of content, but for how it is created. After watching “Why Wikipedia” and “How to Leave (and Read) a Wikipedia Talk Message,” and reading the introduction materials from Joseph Reagle’s Good Faith Collaboration, I’ve come to see that Wikipedia is more than a website—it’s a community built on trust, transparency, and a shared belief in the value of open knowledge. The “Why Wikipedia” video explains that Wikipedia is driven by a radical idea: anyone can edit. This openness has obvious risks, but surprisingly, it works. Why? Because Wikipedians follow a core principle called “good faith.” The idea is that editors assume others are acting with good intentions. They might disagree or make mistakes, but they are seen as partners in a shared mission, not enemies. This idea of good faith collaboration is explored deeply in Reagle’s writings. In the Foreword, Lawrence Lessig praises Wikipedia as an ...
Read more

LIN AIJIA Extra credit blog

China and Globalization The relationship between China and globalization is one of the most significant themes in 21st-century international politics, economics, and cultural exchange. As the world's second-largest economy and the largest developing country, China plays multiple roles in the globalization process: as a beneficiary, a driver, and a participant in shaping the rules.   Historical Background   Reform and Opening-Up & Globalization   China's adoption of the reform and opening-up policy in 1978 marked the beginning of its full integration into the globalization process. [1]   By introducing foreign investment and joining international economic organizations (such as the World Trade Organization), China gradually transformed from an agriculture-based nation into a global manufacturing hub.   Accession to the WTO   In 2001, China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) [2] , a critical milestone in the globalization process. Through mark...
Read more