Final answer:
Minority groups refer to those singled out for unequal treatment in a society, characterized by their lack of power rather than numerical size. These groups face discrimination and have less access to resources than majority groups, which can manifest in numerous societal disadvantages. Movements for equality and social justice by minorities and their allies are crucial to challenge the status quo and address these inequalities.
Step-by-step explanation:
What Are Minority Groups?
Sociologist Louis Wirth defined a minority group as any group of people who, because of their physical or cultural traits, are singled out for unequal treatment within their society, leading them to be regarded as subjects of collective discrimination. The status of a minority group does not necessarily correlate with the numerical representation within a population. For instance, despite being the numerical majority in South Africa during apartheid, Black inhabitants lacked power and were therefore considered a minority.
Minority groups are characterized by having inferior power and less secure access to resources compared to majority groups. In many societies, these groups experience discrimination and may not benefit fully from civil rights, voting rights, or even citizenship. This discriminatory treatment is frequently compounded by government policies failing to protect the rights of minority populations.
Despite civil rights advancements, inequalities persist, as exemplified by American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians facing higher rates of poverty, unemployment, and lower educational attainment. The struggle for equality and social justice has led to movements by minorities and their allies, demanding changes against the exclusionary ideologies of dominant groups.
Understanding the dynamics between minority and majority groups aids in recognizing the significance of political empowerment and citizenship rights for all members of society. This includes not only addressing discrimination based on race or ethnicity but also other forms such as nationality, religion, sexual orientation, and disability.