ID: |
HARP-472 |
Title: |
Structural and psychological dimensions of racism: towards an alternative perspective |
Source: |
Canadian Ethnic Studies , v.26(3) 1994 pg 122-134 |
Parties: |
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Dispute Resolution Organ: |
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Year: |
1994 |
Pages: |
0 |
Author(s): |
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Keywords: |
anti-discrimination, Canada, discrimination, economic, social, and cultural rights, human rights, non-discrimination, racial discrimination, racism, civil and political rights, minority rights |
Abstract: |
Two theoretical perspectives have been used to account for discrimination and racism in North America. The first focuses on individual perceptions and psychological factors, while the second focuses on structural factors and on economic, political and other benefits of discrimination to the dominant group. While both approaches are needed to understand the basis and manifestation of racism, there is a need to integrate them into a coherent perspective. This article analyzes the limitations of each approach, and suggests a need to link both perspectives. Racism has two interrelated dimensions: structurally, it is manifested in political and economic arrangements and social practices that deny or exclude minority groups from equal access; and psychologically, it is expressed in exclusionary thinking and prejudicial attitudes that are influenced by racial beliefs and cognitive factors. Racist practice and thinking are dynamic and dialectic. Although structural arrangements and social practices determine attitude formation, the latter may in turn shape subsequent social practices. |
Secured: |
False |
Download Article: |
Available here |
Keywords: anti-discrimination, Canada, civil and political rights, cultural rights, discrimination, economic, human rights, minority rights, non-discrimination, racial discrimination/racism, social