Question 1

On what basis do biologists argue that "scientifically there can be no races"?

Accepted Answer

Biologists argue that "scientifically there can be no races" based on the understanding that the concept of race is a social construct rather than a biological reality. While there may be superficial physical differences among human populations, these differences do not align with distinct genetic or biological categories. In fact, genetic variation within any so-called "racial" group is often greater than the variation between different groups. Additionally, the genetic diversity found within any given population is a result of complex historical and environmental factors, rather than a clear delineation of separate races. Therefore, biologists argue that the concept of race lacks scientific validity and should not be used as a basis for understanding human diversity. Instead, they emphasize the importance of recognizing and celebrating the rich diversity of human populations without resorting to outdated and inaccurate racial classifications.

Question 2

What comparisons does Water make between pluralism and capitalism?

Accepted Answer

The question "What comparisons does Water make between pluralism and capitalism?" seems to be referring to a specific text, argument, or author named Water that is not universally recognized or provided in the context of this question. Without additional context, it's not possible to provide a detailed comparison between pluralism and capitalism as made by "Water."

However, I can provide a general comparison between the concepts of pluralism and capitalism based on their standard definitions and how they might be compared in a broad sense.

Pluralism is a political philosophy or system that recognizes and affirms diversity within a political body, allowing for the peaceful coexistence of different interests, convictions, and lifestyles. Pluralism suggests that multiple, overlapping sources of power or influence are beneficial to society, as they ensure no single group holds a monopoly on truth or policy-making. It emphasizes the importance of diversity, tolerance, and the inclusion of a variety of voices and perspectives in the decision-making process.

Capitalism, on the other hand, is an economic system characterized by private ownership of the means of production, the creation of goods or services for profit in a market, and the free operation of supply and demand to allocate resources. Capitalism is primarily concerned with economic transactions and the pursuit of economic growth and wealth creation.

Comparing pluralism and capitalism, one might consider the following points:

1. **Diversity vs. Homogeneity**: Pluralism values a diversity of viewpoints and ways of life, while capitalism can lead to a homogeneity of culture and consumption patterns due to market forces promoting certain products or lifestyles over others.

2. **Power Structures**: Pluralism advocates for a distribution of power across different groups in society, whereas capitalism can result in the concentration of economic power in the hands of a few who own and control capital and resources.

3. **Goals and Metrics**: The goal of pluralism is to manage and embrace diversity, ensuring that various groups can coexist and influence society. Capitalism's primary goal is economic efficiency and growth, often measured by profit and GDP.

4. **Inclusivity vs. Exclusivity**: Pluralism inherently promotes inclusivity and participation from all sectors of society. In contrast, capitalism can sometimes lead to exclusivity, where only those with capital or economic leverage can participate fully in the economic system.

5. **Ethical Considerations**: Pluralism often involves ethical considerations about fairness, justice, and the common good. Capitalism, while not devoid of ethical considerations, tends to focus more on the legal framework within which economic activities occur, with less emphasis on the equitable distribution of wealth or opportunities.

6. **Role of the State**: In a pluralistic society, the state often plays a role in protecting the rights and interests of various groups. In a capitalist economy, the state's role can vary from minimal intervention (laissez-faire capitalism) to more active regulation and redistribution (welfare capitalism).

It's important to note that pluralism and capitalism are not mutually exclusive and can coexist within a society. Many democratic countries operate under a form of capitalist economy while striving to maintain a pluralistic political and social system.

To provide a specific answer to the original question, more information about the source material or the context in which "Water" is making these comparisons would be necessary.

Question 3

What are the negative ways in which Michelle Obama has been criticized based upon both her gender and her race?

Accepted Answer

Michelle Obama has faced criticism based on both her gender and race in negative ways. Some of the criticism she has received includes being labeled as an "angry black woman" or being portrayed as overly aggressive or assertive, which are stereotypes often associated with black women. Additionally, she has been criticized for her physical appearance, with some making derogatory comments about her body and clothing choices. There have also been instances where she has been the target of racist and sexist remarks, with some individuals questioning her qualifications and abilities solely based on her gender and race. These criticisms not only reflect the pervasive racism and sexism in society, but also highlight the unique challenges that women of color, like Michelle Obama, face in the public eye.

Question 4

Omi and Winant explain that racial projects can occur at various analytical dimensions. Which of the following is an example of a racial project that is a macro-level social process?

Accepted Answer

A)   microaggressions in everyday interaction
B)   discriminatory hiring practices by managers
C)   identity formation processes for biracial children
D)   policy debates about affirmative action

Question 5

Racism and sexism use a common cognitive framework called_____thinking.

Accepted Answer

A)   prejudiced
B)   discriminatory
C)   opposites attract
D)   binary

Question 6

How does McIntosh define White privilege?

Accepted Answer

The answer of How does McIntosh define White privilege?...

Question 7

The ways Black women in the workplace had to engage in self-presentation was closely tied to the fact they were working in largely ______roles.

Accepted Answer

A)   supervisory
B)   administrative
C)   support
D)   executive

Question 8

Discuss the ways in which heterosexism and racism are linked, historically, according to Patricia Hill Collins.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Discuss the ways in which heterosexism and...

Question 9

According to "What White Supremacists Taught a Jewish Scholar about Identity" by Abby L. Ferber, the history of the Jewish experience_____.

Accepted Answer

A)   has followed a consistent path
B)   demonstrates the social construction of race
C)   represents the value of white supremacy
D)   is the history of freedom from racism

Question 10

What does Gallagher mean when he says that "The new color-blind ideology does not ignore race: it acknowledges race while disregarding racial hierarchy      " What happens when media defines "race only as cultural symbols that are for sale"? Do consumers of all racial groups "see" race the same way, according to Gallagher? Why might media have a different influence on the thinking of Whites than on the thinking of racial minorities?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What does Gallagher mean when he says...

Question 11

Compare and contrast Dr. Kiernan and Dr. Krafft-Ebing's conceptualizations of homosexuality and heterosexuality.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Compare and contrast Dr. Kiernan and Dr....

Question 12

What is largely considered to be the main reason that South Asians are subject to "forever foreigner" status?

Accepted Answer

A)   skin color
B)   lack of educational opportunities
C)   lack of employment opportunities
D)   religious discrimination

Question 13

An example of assimilationist politics by the LGBT community is _____________    .

Accepted Answer

A)   insistence that all non-binary identities be recognized under the trans* umbrella
B)   relying on White, attractive, able-bodied, and "straight-acting" representatives to achieve acceptance
C)   advocacy for including immigrants and transnational identities as central to GLBT activism
D)   a radical opposition to marriage as a heterosexist institution rather than advocacy for marriage equality

Question 14

Armstrong et. al. argue that the status distinctions maintained by slut discourse_____.

Accepted Answer

A)   link appropriate displays of femininity with social class
B)   benefit less affluent women because they have fewer sexual partners
C)   privilege girls who are religiously or socially conservative
D)   depend upon public shaming of the stigmatized targets of the discourse

Question 15

Attitude surveys indicate that over the years White prejudice has ___________.

Accepted Answer

A)   declined
B)   increased
C)   become the only reason that racism persists
D)   been limited to ideas about new groups of immigrants

Question 16

Hegemonic masculinity is the_____.

Accepted Answer

A)   form of masculinity attributed to those men who hold power
B)   way men naturally act
C)   way all men learn to act
D)   way men in subordinate positions are supposed to act with men who have power over them

Question 17

What is a meritocracy? How does a color-blind perspective buttress the deeply held belief that America is a meritocracy? Why do you think Gallagher uses "OPPORTUNITY HAS NO COLOR" as one of his subtitles within this article?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What is a meritocracy? How does a...

Question 18

Ryan argues that gay and lesbian individuals_____.

Accepted Answer

A)   are immune to transphobia
B)   are also outside the gender binary
C)   can contribute to the marginalization of transgender individuals
D)   will be disadvantaged by an inclusive understanding of trans* identity

Question 19

Ryan critiques Diane Sawyer's interview with Caitlyn Jenner because it _____________ .

Accepted Answer

A)   sensationalized transgender identity as a media spectacle
B)   obscured the realities of systemic, institutional oppression of trans* individuals
C)   failed to convince mainstream audiences that Jenner was really a woman
D)   wasn't culturally relevant and did not gain public attention for transgender issues

Question 20

Most White Americans today ______.

Accepted Answer

A)   agree with Black Americans about the extent of racial discrimination
B)   hold a dominant racial framing that is consistent with white-racist ideologies, even if they don't subscribe to extreme hate rhetoric
C)   have rejected the racist attitudes that fuel White nationalist hate groups
D)   understand the White racist history of the United States and its deep and continuing systemic effects

Exam 2: Systems of Power and Inequality