Question

Demonstrate the socially constructed nature of discrimination by examining a pre-World War II European American instance and a post-World War II non-European instance with respect to a severe form of ethnic hostility. What are the key factors that contribute to the socially constructed nature of discrimination in these instances?

A) Economic factors
B) Political factors
C) Cultural factors
D) Historical factors

Answer 1

Socially constructed discrimination is demonstrated through pre-World War II anti-Polish sentiment and post-war racial segregation of African-Americans, driven by economic, political, cultural, and historical factors.

Step-by-step explanation:

To demonstrate the socially constructed nature of discrimination, we can examine two instances of severe ethnic hostility: the anti-Polish sentiment in German-occupied Poland before World War II and the racial segregation experienced by African-Americans in the United States after World War II. Discrimination is a social construct that can be driven by various factors including economics, politics, culture, and history. These factors intertwine to create systems and attitudes that justify and perpetuate the unequal treatment of certain social groups.

For example, economic factors such as competition for jobs and resources can lead to resentment against perceived 'outsiders'. Political factors, including laws and policies, can institutionalize discrimination, creating systematic barriers for certain groups. Cultural factors play a role in discrimination as well, as prejudices against certain ethnicities or races can become normalized through stereotypes and biases within society. Lastly, historical factors such as past conflicts or colonial legacies can fuel longstanding hostilities, manifesting in discriminatory practices.