Cultural Pluralism: Chapter 1

Religious or Cultural Dogma

"we've always done it that way"

Appeal to Conscience

"you don't really believe that, do you?"

Dogma

accept beliefs without questioning it

Discrimination

actions of practices carried by a member of members of a dominant group that have a differential and negative impact on a member of the subordinate groups

Race

based on a person's skin color

Relationship between a person's values and behaviors

consistent inconsistency between what we say we value and our actual behavior

What is ethnicity based on?

cultural differences

Minority group

does not imply anything about the number of people in the group; implies something about their power

Bigotry

extreme negative attitudes leading to a hatred of a group

Exceptionalistic perspective

focuses on individuals; it perceives all problems as local, exclusive, and unpredictable; treats only symptoms of problems, but not the cause

Beliefs

inferences about reality that take one of three forms: descriptive, evaluative, and prescriptive

Problems that can interfere with making ethical decisions

language: ambiguity and inaccurate information

Kniker's theory

most effective way to teach values is to allow children and youth an opportunity for discussion and debate, employing activities that can stimulate their beliefs, hear the perspectives and consider different effects on decisions

Limited choices

parents manipulate children into making acceptable decisions "mother asks child to wash the dishes or they won't see their friends for a week"

Stereotype

positive or negative trait ascribed to certain groups and to most members of that group

Bias

preference of indication that inhibits impartial judgment

Nationality

refers to the nation in which one has citizenship

Linnaeus' Theory

should be based on racial classifications on geographical origins

Derisive labels

terms reflecting a sense of contempt or ridicule based on factors such as race, class, disability, sexual orientation

Inspiring people

turn to inspirational or motivational speakers

Universalistic perspective

views social problems as systemic; does not address consequences or assist people who are currently suffering

biases (3 examples)

1) family: believing what you're family says without seeking evidence 2) attractiveness: believing info from attractive people 3) confirmation: believing info that reinforced beliefs you already held

Inconsistencies that exist between American values and American behaviors

Americans emphasize individuality, yet demands conformity & Americans value equality, but there's a racial inequality and gender inequality

Values: Taught or individually chosen?

Parents, teachers, peers, clergy, relatives, and youth counselors teach values

7 traditional approaches

Set an example, rules and regulations, persuade, appeal to conscience, limited choices, inspiring people, and religious/cultural dogma

LeBron's theory

When individuals congregate, the group presents new characteristics different from those of the individuals composing it

Prejudice

a negative attitude toward a group perceived to be members of that group