Question

Explain how social problems within social institutions (on micro and macro levels) have perpetuated or affected the social problem you selected (200-250 words).

Social problem Racism

Answer 1

One of the most important factors that caused discrimination in American Society is racism. It was the white supremacy thoughts and values that forced the white people introduce race as a major element in the society in order to dominate and oppress others. As conflict theory suggests that the society is in a perpetual conflict for the limited resources available where social order is maintained not through consensus but through domination. This would mean that race was used by the majority as a major tool to discriminate people of color in denying their right to education, employment, housing, healthcare, property, political participation etc. However, when slavery was abolished, it was only legally done but the social forces from the white majority especially in the Southern states imposed new laws and rules that would unofficially hold slavery. Although minority people fought for their civil rights and against discrimination and won their rights, the power elites who also control the economy and the government introduced institutional racism which prevented people of color from moving upward in the society. Thus, the institutionalisation of racism along with the accumulated advantage for the white people remain a barrier to people of color in attaining equality. Although affirmative actions are in place to improve the conditions of the minority, centuries long discrimination cannot be overcome with few years of affirmative action.

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