Assign to AllRoundBest Tutor

E.R.docx

Home >Social Science homework help >Sociology homework help >Assign to AllRoundBest Tutor

From student E.R

Compare and contrast what is meant by the social construction of race with what is meant by the social construction of ethnicity and what is meant by the social construction of gender

Social constructs are generally beliefs or ideas of a society that may seem natural and evident, but it may or may not be a good representation of the truth. In short, it’s an idea that has been created and accepted by a society. When we look at race vs ethnicity vs gender, we can see that these are ideas that have significant meaning and histories but have since been outdated terms that have been social constructed to keep us from seeing the truth – that we are all human, no matter where you come from or what gender you are. According to the text, the social construction of race means that although race is used to define people by their biological and physical characteristics as well as heritage, it is still an idea accepted in many people’s mind to keep us categorized (Kendall, 2018). Like race, the social construction of ethnicity is an idea that is socially accepted to further deepen the differences between each other. Our ethnicity, or ethnic group, further classifies us into groups based on similar factors such as language and religious practices, just to name a few (Kendall, 2018). Both ethnicity and race play a large role as social constructs in society because they demonstrate the uniqueness of each culture and provide further individuality. Furthermore, the social construction of gender is also culturally created to show the distinct qualities of men and women, masculinity vs femininity (Kendall, 2018). The social constructions of gender, ethnicity, and race are all formed to express the individuality of each person and is based on what is socially accepted. Additionally, these social norms go on to further establish each construct, even though there may be individuals who have different perspectives on the matter.

How or why is it beneficial to view these as social constructs?

It can be beneficial to view these as social constructs because it creates a foundation as to what people can commonly understand as the norms. It is this understanding that will allow people to fit into their society and environments. Furthermore, these social constructs help facilitate shared beliefs and ideas within a group of people allowing for more interaction and growth.

For you personally, are your racial, ethnic, and/or gender identities more matters of how you view yourself or of how others view you? Please explain.

I think that my race, ethnicity, and gender are a big influence in how I view myself. I see my culture and traditions as a big part of my life and it’s a way that I can feel connected to my heritage and ancestors. When it comes to race and ethnicity we cannot escape where we come from or who we are, but we can choose to accept it and embrace it, or not.I identify myself more as a Filipino and I take great pride in that even though I was born and raised in America.

In what ways is how you view yourself influenced by the larger society and culture?

Although I am not easily influenced by others, I feel like society as a whole and the American culture has definitely made its imprint on me. Whether I realize it or not, I am doing things the “American way” or the way society sees as acceptable. For example, I am more inclined to celebrate and show-boat a good play in a sporting event because of what I see on television and in other social media outlets. Additionally, I feel like the “American Dream” has me publicly-conforming, as I am “matching one’s behavior to meet the expectations of others, whilst privately holding a different view”(Waude, 2017). It is what I constantly am striving for and what is expected of me even though I feel content with where I am. Pressure from society sometimes dictates my actions, and whether I like it or not, dictates what I see as successful career paths and successful lives. Overall, even though I try to resist the pressure or society, I feel like I am constantly being molded by society so that I can fit in and be liked by others.

References:

Kendall, D. E. (2018). Sociology in our times: The essentials (11th ed.). Boston, MA: Cengage Learning.

Waude, A. (2017, July 20). Social Influence: Why We Conform In Groups. Retrieved June 4, 2019, from https://www.psychologistworld.com/influence/social-influence