The Impact of Racism: Current State in The United States

Racism is a deeply rooted issue in society that has far-reaching consequences. While it is a psychological disease that manifests in people's minds, there are various social, economic, and political factors that contribute to its emergence. This essay will explore the problem of racism, analyzing its causes and impact on society. Additionally, it will examine the current state of racism in the United States.

Racism can be defined as the belief that an individual's traits and abilities are determined by their racial group and biological characteristics, resulting in the superiority of one race over others. This belief dehumanizes certain individuals based on their skin color, place of birth, language, and traditions (Racism, 2001, para. 1). Prejudice, hatred, discrimination, and a desire for dominance are common characteristics of racism, as it seeks to separate and withhold privileges and goods from certain racial groups.

The origins of racism are difficult to pinpoint, as it seems to have existed for as long as humans have encountered different races. The fear of the unknown and resistance to change are inherent human traits that contribute to the development of racism. When migration began and people encountered different races, racism likely emerged as a response to these differences. Over time, historical events reinforced and perpetuated these beliefs.

Identifying the causes of racism is a complex task, as they encompass a wide range of factors, including psychological, social, and political influences. Internally, one of the primary causes is xenophobia, which is the fear of individuals who are different. Additionally, some individuals feel the need to dominate and assert their superiority over others. Ignorance, the unwillingness to share power, and a disregard for other cultures and traditions also contribute to racism.

Externally, upbringing plays a significant role in shaping an individual's character, values, and views. Parents have a powerful influence on their children's beliefs, and if a child is taught that certain races are inferior, it becomes deeply ingrained and difficult to overcome. Education and teachers also play a crucial role in shaping beliefs. History, for example, can perpetuate racism if it is not properly taught and understood. The media, particularly in films and TV shows, often perpetuates negative stereotypes by casting people of color as villains and white individuals as heroes. Even media that addresses racism can be interpreted in various ways, further perpetuating misunderstandings.

The stratification of society is another cause of racism. While societal stratification is necessary to some extent, it also leads to racial discrimination. When society becomes divided based on race, inequalities and prejudices emerge. The demarcation among nations also contributes to racism, as countries that were once colonized are often labeled as "developing" or "Third-World," implying inferiority. Economic and political factors, such as immigration policies that justify hostility towards foreigners, also perpetuate racism.

The impact of racism on society is profound, even if some argue that racism has been largely eradicated. People of color often face barriers and discrimination that limit their opportunities. In terms of employment, it is more difficult for individuals from minority racial groups to secure well-paid jobs. In the United States, the unemployment rate for black Americans is approximately 14%, compared to 6% for white Americans (Becker, 2014, para. 7). This selectivity not only violates the rights of minorities but also hampers the success of firms and negatively affects the economy.

Housing discrimination is another consequence of racism. People of color often face rejections or less favorable conditions when renting apartments. In some cities, black and Latino individuals are denied available housing between 35% to 75% of the time (Bonilla-Silva, 2013, p. 33). This discrimination hinders their ability to find suitable housing, further exacerbating inequalities.

Furthermore, racism takes a toll on social health. Aside from the direct violence experienced by minorities, the psychological pressure of dealing with discrimination leads to high levels of stress and stress-related health problems. Access to quality healthcare is also limited for many individuals of color, resulting in inadequate medical care (Feagin & McKinney, 2005, p. 12).

While racism persists at the grassroots level, there is hope for progress in the United States. According to Becker (2014), nearly 90% of the population approves of interracial marriages, and the number of such marriages continues to rise. Additionally, though the unemployment rate for black Americans is still higher than for white Americans, it has decreased over the years (Becker, 2014).

In conclusion, although racism has decreased in recent years, it remains a pressing issue in society. Its presence poisons our communities, affecting economics, relationships, and overall well-being. Discrimination in employment and housing, along with the psychological toll it takes, demonstrates the lasting impact of racism. While progress has been made, there is still work to be done to create a truly inclusive and equal society. Education, media representation, and changing societal attitudes are key in combating racism and dismantling the systems that perpetuate it. It is important for individuals to challenge their own biases and prejudices, and for institutions to implement policies and practices that promote equality and diversity. Only through collective efforts can we hope to eradicate racism and create a society where everyone is valued and treated with dignity and respect.