Final answer:
The definition of racism by Schaefer 1990 centers on a belief system asserting racial superiority or inferiority, resulting in systemic inequality and power imbalances. It emphasizes the role of power in the enforcement of racism through individual actions and institutional structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The definition of racism by Schaefer 1990 includes a set of beliefs that involve the perception of racial superiority or inferiority, leading to a system of domination that impacts everyday interactions and results in an unequal distribution of privilege, resources, and power. Racism can manifest in various forms, including individual prejudices and discrimination based solely on racial group membership, institutional racism that is ingrained in the fabric of society affecting large groups, and even as scientific racism where pseudo-scientific claims are used to justify the oppression of certain groups.
Racism is more than just individual acts of prejudice; it involves systemic issues that can lead to substantial societal impacts such as racial profiling or the disproportionate incarceration of individuals from certain racial groups. Power dynamics are central to the concept of racism, as it is the combination of prejudice and the power to enforce it that enables racism to thrive. Therefore, understanding racism requires acknowledging its complexity and the multitudinous ways it can infiltrate society.