Race As Biology Is Fiction Analysis

An Analysis of Race as Biology Is Fiction, Racism as a Social Problem Is Real
For centuries, the concept of race has been a major social issue in the United States and its definition has changed over time. Today, the concept of race is defined as "a category of humankind that shares certain distinctive physical traits" (e.g., "Race," n.d., para.1). The article "Race as Biology Is Fiction, Racism as a Social Problem Is Real: Anthropological and Historical Perspectives on the Social Construction of Race" by Audrey Smedley and Brian D. Smedley, explains the difference between race and ethnicity by providing historical and anthropological context, it reviews the concept of race and how it originated in society. This essay will aim to analyze the
Although the authors reach their goal and explain the concept of race, their historical facts, evidence and statements are repetitive. To begin, they explain, “history shows that people can and do learn another language and/or move into another ethnic group and become participants in that ethnicity” (pg. 18). Indeed, individuals can and do learn another language or move into another group to become a part or member of the society and not feel like an outsider. Although many individuals are willing to lose their identity (ethnicity) to be part of the society (specific ethnic group) others who aren’t willing perceive this as culture genocide. However, learning a new language and obtaining some of the cultural aspects of an ethnic group is not wrong. In order to live well and become part of the society in a country, one must adapt to the culture of that country. This does not mean that one should completely lose their values and beliefs just to fit in society, but it is necessary to accept other ethnic group cultural aspects in order to survive in their society. In addition, ethnic differences have caused conflict in societies; one of these conflicts is what we call ethnocentrism. Ethnocentrism is the belief that one’s own culture and lifestyle is better or superior than others. Just like the authors discussed, ethnocentrism is part of society; one can see it in religion, sports games, education, careers etc. Subsequently, the authors explain the historical context of race ideology throughout the entire article. They consecutively emphasize how the concept of race began in the 17th century, how it solidified in the 18th and 19th century, and how those beliefs of race have endured into the 20th and 21st centuries (pg. 19). However,