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Racialization: meaning, definitions and examples

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racialization

 

[ˌreɪʃələˈzeɪʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

social

The process of attributing racial identities to individuals or groups, often based on physical characteristics, cultural practices, or stereotypes. Racialization can lead to discrimination, inequality, and marginalization.

Synonyms

racial identity attribution, racial stereotyping.

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Word Description / Examples
racialization

This term is used in academic or sociological discussions to describe the process by which groups of people are categorized or treated based on their race. It often carries a negative connotation, as it implies the imposition of racial identities that can lead to discrimination or prejudice.

  • The study focused on the racialization of immigrant communities in urban areas
  • Racialization can occur through media representations that reinforce certain stereotypes
racial identity attribution

This term is typically used in discussions about personal and community identity formation. It focuses on the process by which individuals identify themselves or are identified by others based on race. It does not have an inherently negative connotation but can be sensitive.

  • During the interview, she talked about her racial identity attribution and how it influenced her experiences at school
  • Understanding racial identity attribution is crucial for fostering inclusive social environments
racial stereotyping

This term is used in various contexts, including social, psychological, and cultural discussions. It refers to the act of making generalized and often unfair assumptions about individuals based on their race. It carries a strong negative connotation and is related to prejudice and discrimination.

  • Racial stereotyping can lead to serious social injustices and inequality
  • The movie was criticized for its racial stereotyping of certain ethnic groups

Examples of usage

  • Racialization can create barriers to opportunities for certain groups.
  • Racialization can also result in stigmatization and prejudice.
  • Racialization is a complex social phenomenon that affects various aspects of society.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'racialization' emerged in the late 20th century as social scientists began to study how race affects identity and society.
  • Concepts of race have deep roots in colonialism, where differences in physical appearance were used to justify dominance over other groups.
  • Sociologists argue that racialization serves as a method to group people, often ignoring their individual histories and experiences.

Sociology

  • Racialization is not just about biology; it includes social practices and beliefs that shape how race is perceived in different contexts.
  • The process can change over time; what defines a race or ethnicity can evolve based on cultural and social influences.
  • Racialized identities can affect experiences in employment, education, and healthcare, leading to systemic inequalities.

Politics

  • Many political movements address racialization, advocating for equality and challenging stereotypes associated with different groups.
  • Policies and legislation often reflect racialized views, impacting how resources are allocated and which communities receive support.
  • Racialization can be leveraged in political discourse to either unite people within a group or create divides between different groups.

Psychology

  • Cognitive biases related to racialization can lead to stereotypes, where people make assumptions about others based solely on race.
  • Studies show that racialization can influence personal relationships and perceptions of trustworthiness and competence.
  • Racialized experiences can contribute to feelings of belonging or exclusion, affecting mental health and societal engagement.

Literature

  • Numerous authors explore themes of racialization in their works, highlighting characters' struggles with identity and societal perceptions.
  • Literary criticism often examines how narratives portray different races, revealing biases and cultural contexts.
  • Racialized perspectives in literature can foster empathy and understanding, encouraging readers to challenge their own views.

Translations

Translations of the word "racialization" in other languages:

🇵🇹 racialização

🇮🇳 नस्लीकरण

🇩🇪 Rassialisierung

🇮🇩 rasialisasi

🇺🇦 расизація

🇵🇱 rasializacja

🇯🇵 人種化（じんしゅか）

🇫🇷 racialisation

🇪🇸 racialización

🇹🇷 ırkçılık

🇰🇷 인종화 (injonghwa)

🇸🇦 التصنيف العرقي

🇨🇿 rasializace

🇸🇰 rasializácia

🇨🇳 种族化 (zhǒngzú huà)

🇸🇮 rasializacija

🇮🇸 kynþáttaflokkun

🇰🇿 нәсілдендіру

🇬🇪 რასიზაცია

🇦🇿 irqlaşdırma

🇲🇽 racialización

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,406 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.