How does race affect social class
In my experience, race does not affect social class -- at least in the North and West.
Social class is affected by money, dress, neighborhood, ability to speak English fluently, and education.
What are your thoughts on this subject?
I think race affect that back in the day but not anymore, I see colored people with more money, than lets say whites, like raps and movie stars, they werent aloud that back in the day.
I agree. But you don't have to be a rap or movie star to have a lot of money. Many African-Americans are doctors, business owners, presidents of companies, college professors, senators, etc. Many African-Americans are also in the middle class
The relationship between race and social class is complex and can vary depending on the specific social, cultural, and historical context. Race can have a significant impact on social class due to various societal factors such as systemic racism, discrimination, and unequal access to resources and opportunities.
To understand how race affects social class, it is important to consider the following explanations:
1. Historical Context: Historical practices such as slavery, colonialism, and racial segregation have contributed to the creation of racial hierarchies and disparities in social, economic, and political power. These practices have had long-lasting impacts on the social class structure, as certain racial groups have historically been subjected to oppression and limited opportunities for upward mobility.
2. Systemic Racism: Systemic racism refers to the ways in which racist behaviors, practices, and policies are deeply embedded in social institutions, including education, housing, employment, and criminal justice systems. This systemic racism can perpetuate and reinforce racial disparities in social class, as certain racial groups face barriers and discrimination in accessing quality education, jobs, and housing, which in turn can limit their social mobility and contribute to lower social class positions.
3. Discrimination and Bias: Implicit biases and discriminatory attitudes can impact how individuals are perceived and treated within society, influencing their access to resources, opportunities, and social networks. Racial discrimination can hinder upward social mobility, making it more challenging for individuals from certain racial backgrounds to improve their social class standing.
4. Wealth and Income Disparities: Racial inequalities in wealth and income distribution are closely tied to social class differences. Historical disadvantages and ongoing discrimination contribute to lower average income levels and a lack of wealth accumulation among certain racial groups. This wealth disparity can perpetuate social class inequalities across generations, as the resources and advantages typically associated with higher social classes, such as quality education and access to capital, are not equally available.
It is important to note that while race can significantly impact social class, there are also other intersecting factors such as gender, ethnicity, and nationality that can further shape an individual's social class position. Understanding and addressing these complex interactions requires a comprehensive analysis of historical, social, economic, and political factors that contribute to racial and social class disparities.