Final answer:
Racism is the belief that one race is inherently superior or inferior to other races, which can result in both individual prejudices and systemic inequalities within institutions and society.
Step-by-step explanation:
The meaning of racism refers to a belief or a set of practices that view one race as inherently superior or inferior to others. This can manifest as individual attitudes and behaviors, as well as systemic policies and institutional practices that perpetuate racial inequity. Racism includes both the personal prejudices held by individuals (implicit and explicit) and the power structures that keep these prejudices in place, disadvantaging certain racial groups while privileging others. Racism is also represented in societal norms and cultural attitudes that reflect stereotypes and discrimination ingrained within a society.
Examples of racism can include overt actions such as hate crimes or systemic issues like institutional racism, where social systems and institutions create or maintain racial disadvantages. The legacy of historical racism also impacts present inequities, such as the wealth and education gaps facing African Americans due to past enslavement and discrimination. Cultural racism, colorism, and findings concerning implicit biases in attitudes also illustrate the complex and pervasive nature of racism. Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is: Racism is 1) A belief that one race is superior to others.