Final answer:
Professor Gieryn's assertion against creeping elitism is based on the assumption that diversity in campus environments fosters intercultural learning and challenge racial and ethnic prejudices. Institutional racism and the importance of integration are highlighted as barriers that need addressing in order to preserve and benefit from a diverse society.
Step-by-step explanation:
Professor Gieryn asserts that "creeping elitism" is to be avoided because the campus might grow less diverse ethnically and racially. One of the assumptions behind this assertion is the importance of residential integration to prevent cultural isolation and encourage interaction among different groups, which can lead to intermarriage, friendships, and a broader understanding of various cultures. This integration is crucial for challenging and dismantling the racial and ethnic prejudices that arise from segregation and ignorance.
Furthermore, institutional racism embedded in social institutions can perpetuate inequality if not addressed. Critical race theorists emphasize that systemic structures, such as education and housing, affect racial minorities negatively. Thus, avoiding creeping elitism is a step towards dismantling these structural barriers and fostering equal opportunities.
Lastly, historical examples and social theories, like those put forth by Elazar, highlight the dynamic nature of cultural integration and the ever-changing demographics that come with immigration. The fear of the dilution of cultural 'purity' and loss of power contributes to efforts to maintain the status quo, but those efforts threaten the diversity and intercultural learning that are essential for a healthy, equitable society.