Question

1. What is a minority group? Cite and explain the defining characteristics, paying special attention to "patterns of disadvantages" and "visible characteristics", by this definition, are women a minority group? Gay and Lesbian Americans? Justify your decision.

2. Explain what is meant by stratification. Why is stratification an important concept to the study of society? What are the significant connection between stratification and minority group status? How does stratification use term like classes?

3. In your own words, define and explain each of the following terms: prejudice, discrimination, institutional discrimination. Cite an example of each from current events or from your own personal experience.

4. Discuss what is meant by "institutional discrimination". How does it work against individuals. It is subtle? Use examples from your text and your own life experiences to support this claim. (hint: lack of promotions)

5. Define assimilation and pluralism. How are they different? Which perspective would you select to recommend to an immigrant?

6. Briefly summarize Gordon's theory of assimilation. Identify each of his phases to reach assimilation. Americanization, related to assimilation, is of great concern to Americans when discussing the problems associated with immigrants (documented or undocumented), why? Try to discuss this topic with the past and the present, what you hear on news today.

7. Give your thoughts about women in the workplace during the beginning of the industrial revolution as immigrants. What were the issues that women faced and were they part of the workforce? What were the working conditions that women faced in the workplace?

Answer 1

1) A minority group, in sociological terms, is a category of people who share certain defining characteristics and experiences of social disadvantage or discrimination in society. Two key elements often used to define minority groups are "patterns of disadvantages" and "visible characteristics."

Patterns of Disadvantages: Minority groups typically face systematic and persistent disadvantages in various aspects of life, including but not limited to economic, educational, political, and social opportunities. These disadvantages can result from historical discrimination, social prejudices, or unequal access to resources and power.
Visible Characteristics: Minority groups may exhibit visible characteristics or attributes that set them apart from the majority population. These characteristics can include race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or other identifiable traits.
Now, let's consider whether women and gay and lesbian Americans meet these criteria:

Women:

Patterns of Disadvantages: Historically, women have faced systemic discrimination and inequality in various societies, including limited access to education, employment opportunities, and political representation. While progress has been made, gender-based disadvantages persist in many areas, making women a minority group by this definition.
Visible Characteristics: Gender is a visible characteristic, and women are identifiable based on this trait. However, it's essential to note that not all minority groups have visible characteristics; some, like religious minorities or those with disabilities, may not exhibit visible attributes.
Gay and Lesbian Americans:

Patterns of Disadvantages: Members of the LGBTQ+ community, including gay and lesbian individuals, have historically faced significant discrimination, stigmatization, and legal disadvantages, such as being denied the right to marry or facing workplace discrimination. These patterns of disadvantages meet the criteria for minority group status.
Visible Characteristics: Sexual orientation is not a visible characteristic in the same way that race or gender is. However, discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals is often based on assumptions or stereotypes, and individuals may choose to disclose their sexual orientation, making it a relevant factor in the minority group definition.
In summary, by the sociological definition of minority groups, both women and gay and lesbian Americans can be considered minority groups due to the presence of patterns of disadvantages and, in the case of women, the visibility of gender as a characteristic. It's important to recognize that the concept of minority groups is complex and multidimensional, and experiences of discrimination and disadvantage can vary within and between these groups.