Chapter 8: Merton's Typology of Race

These flashcards cover key concepts related to race and ethnicity in the U.S., focusing on Merton's theories, structural racism, and the relationship between prejudice and discrimination.

What is Merton’s Race Theory primarily used to analyze?

The effects of racial inequality, not racism itself.

According to Robert Merton, why do racial and ethnic groups face unequal treatment?

Not because of their lack of merit, but because of their race and ethnicity.

What is structural racism?

Racial inequality embedded in social institutions like education, housing, healthcare, and criminal justice.

How does race differ from ethnicity?

Race is a social category linked to physical characteristics, while ethnicity relates to culture, language, and identity.

What are the four personality types Merton identifies in relation to prejudice and discrimination?

Unprejudiced non-discriminators, unprejudiced discriminators, prejudiced non-discriminators, prejudiced discriminators.

What did the CNN/Kaiser Family Foundation Survey reveal about perceptions of White Americans benefiting from discrimination?

66% of Blacks and 55% of Hispanics believe White Americans have benefited from discrimination against minorities.

How does Merton’s Typology explain discrimination?

It highlights that individuals can discriminate without being aware of it or holding prejudiced beliefs.

What is a common misconception about the relationship between prejudice and discrimination?

That they always go hand in hand; sometimes individuals can be prejudiced without discriminating, or vice versa.

What is the median household wealth gap between White and Black households as of 2024?

The median household wealth for White households is projected to be significantly higher than for Black households.

What is the impact of saying 'I don't see race' according to Justice Sonia Sotomayor?

It ignores racism and does not contribute to solving it.