Some dictionary definitions of racism:
Merriam-Webster:
- 1: a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race
2a : a doctrine or political program based on the assumption of racism and designed to execute its principles - 2b : a political or social system founded on racism
- 3: racial prejudice or discrimination
Oxford:
1Prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one's own race is superior.
- 1.1 The belief that all members of each race possess characteristics, abilities, or qualities specific to that race, especially so as to distinguish it as inferior or superior to another race or races.
Cambridge:
belief that people's qualities are influenced by their race and that the members of other races are not as good as the members of your own, or the resulting unfair treatment of members of other races
Dictionary.com:
1. a belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human racial groups determine cultural or individual achievement,usually involving the idea that one's own race is superior and has the right to dominate others or that a particular racial group is inferior to the others.
2. a policy, system of government, etc., based upon or fostering such a doctrine; discrimination.
3. hatred or intolerance of another race or other races.
All these definitions are based on Perceptions rather than reality. All 4 of these defs say "the belief". The genetic difference between races is slim to non-existent. It is perception of a difference that cultural differences may result in one group being superior to another group in one way but not necessarily in all ways. Just because I know how to put bread on my table by holding down a job does not make me superior to an African tribesman who puts bread on his table by hunting. Some may perceive my job as superior but the reality is that both a job and hunting are capable of keeping one alive and supplied with food for consumption.
My interpretation of race is that it is based far more on perception than rooted in reality. It is primarily a gov concoction and serves little if any useful purpose in modern society. Race is used (actually misused) today by special interest groups and gov to further whatever end they desire.
