Final answer:
Healthcare in America has been historically shaped by views of racial inferiority that affected the access to medical care for African Americans, leading to current healthcare disparities. Perceptions of illness among White Americans differ greatly and are influenced by history, culture, and individual experiences.
Step-by-step explanation:
Health disparities in America have historical roots and are prevalent today, as evidenced by the varied experiences with illness and the healthcare system among different racial groups. The perception of illness and the approach to healthcare by White or European Americans can be influenced by culture, individual perspectives, and the historical context of medicine within the nation. In the past, European Americans viewed African Americans as inferior, leading to a two-tiered healthcare system that denied proper care to Black individuals and other minorities.
This belief was supported by a misguided scientific consensus that categorized African Americans as biologically and intellectually subordinate. It's important to note that the views and experiences differ widely among individuals and throughout history. However, these views have continually impacted access to healthcare for African Americans, leading to a disparity in health outcomes when compared to Whites—a legacy that affects contemporary healthcare practices and perceptions of illness.