Stereotypes

Earlier in the semester we learned that race is not biological, but in reality race is socially constructed. In other words, as the United States population goes through a socialization process; the migrant groups that come to our country have to assimilate to the dominant groups by learning the language, values, and customs. Throughout history, US society has been ruled by racialized social systems, in which racial hierarchy plays a crucial part in the different aspects of society such as economic, political, social, and ideological levels. Ever since African Americans came to the states, they have been subordinated because they were seen as inferior and undomesticated. Thus, leading to slavery and discrimination against a whole race. Still to this day, black are discriminated against in various circumstances; for instance, in the workplace they either never get the chance for high-standing position or they are hired for jobs white Americans do no want to take. In my opinion, the reason people are prejudice and discriminatory toward races in general is because of stereotypes.

By definition, a stereotype is a exaggerated and prejudicial view on a group based on ignorance. One simple example of a racial stereotype is saying all Asians are good at math. The problem is that stereotypes are formed through socialization, with many perspectives coming for the mass media. Therefore, the media has the power to influence social relationships and create an illusion of actual reality. After repeated viewings of references of stereotypes, individuals will begin to exert what they learn from the media into reality with preconceptions. In most cases, individuals will perceive a stereotype in a negative point of view and mass mediums are to blame. One key aspect about stereotyping is that advertisers emphasize easily recognizable features toward consumers to instill perceptions in their memory. In terms of race, minorities are always looked down upon compared to white Americans in the United States media. The frequency and presence of racial stereotypes and ethnic misrepresentations in modern media leads to negative impacts on the images of people, place, religions, and actions of the world. For instance, Native Americans are always portrayed as ignorant savages wearing similar long cloaks. So whenever Native American or Indian comes to mind, personally I think of the conventional view of them portrayed in the media. It is not a good perception whatsoever, but it is was has been instilled in my mind by means of the media.

The media is a powerful engine. It shapes attitudes, behaviors, and communication patterns of its audience through various mediums. The fact is people have to recognize all the different stereotypes portrayed in society, but not jump to assumptions and conclude that all stereotypes are accurate. It is hard though because society is socialized to a certain ideal, the only way to really fight racism and stereotypes is though oppositional culture. But even then, that will only a small portion of society that concurs, so really the key is to infuse in schools that racism is wrong and a detriment to society.