Summary Of Defining Racism By Beverly Daniel Tatum
Joe Harris
English
17 September 2014
Response to “Defining Racism” by Beverly Daniel Tatum The author begins by analyzing three sources of prejudice-stereotypes, omissions and distortions. She made a distinction between the definitions of racism and prejudice. In the first portion, she points out that racism is a system that favors whites in profound ways that most of us do not begin to realize. The second part asks the reader the question of whether racism is a word that applies only to the whites. She answers by defining racism as white superiority therefore it is most relevant to be applied to whites, however racial prejudice can exist in all people. Lastly she mentions that racism actually results in large economic costs to the society
therefore the whites have a powerful incentive to make changes to the system that benefits them. Throughout her article, Tatum makes an effective argument about the defining of racism and its existence both as an active player in society, and a dormant fixture intertwined in the fabric of American culture. Upon reading this essay I have come to a conclusion by how Tatum concluded three sources of prejudice—stereotypes, omissions and distortions as well as her distinction between prejudice and racism. I think racism mostly relates to the ignorance of the culture of other races. I agree to her saying as most of us do not bother to know people from different races or even different cultures. I feel there is a huge gap between different racial and ethical groups here. However, it largely depends on individuals; some people are less aware of the racial difference and hence are more ready to reach out.
English
17 September 2014
Response to “Defining Racism” by Beverly Daniel Tatum The author begins by analyzing three sources of prejudice-stereotypes, omissions and distortions. She made a distinction between the definitions of racism and prejudice. In the first portion, she points out that racism is a system that favors whites in profound ways that most of us do not begin to realize. The second part asks the reader the question of whether racism is a word that applies only to the whites. She answers by defining racism as white superiority therefore it is most relevant to be applied to whites, however racial prejudice can exist in all people. Lastly she mentions that racism actually results in large economic costs to the society
therefore the whites have a powerful incentive to make changes to the system that benefits them. Throughout her article, Tatum makes an effective argument about the defining of racism and its existence both as an active player in society, and a dormant fixture intertwined in the fabric of American culture. Upon reading this essay I have come to a conclusion by how Tatum concluded three sources of prejudice—stereotypes, omissions and distortions as well as her distinction between prejudice and racism. I think racism mostly relates to the ignorance of the culture of other races. I agree to her saying as most of us do not bother to know people from different races or even different cultures. I feel there is a huge gap between different racial and ethical groups here. However, it largely depends on individuals; some people are less aware of the racial difference and hence are more ready to reach out.