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Ethnicity
The changing picture of ethnicity over time coincides with increased mobility, induced by historical, political, economic and social reasons. In the context of the identity portfolio, the visible ‘face’ of ethnicity refers to any physical aspects of a people’s appearance that display their ethnic background or ancestry to others. It includes tangible aspects such as names that provide insights into ethnic background, which might or might not be misleading. In any case, it provokes assumptions that, in turn, shape the perceptions of the interaction partners.
Ethnicity and its visible format can act as misleading pointers to cultural differences; for example, stereotyping, and at worst may form the basis for racial discrimination. The devastating impact of this can be seen in the current unrest in the United States. In today’s interconnected world, individuals may interact mainly with people from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Working in a multi-ethnic environment, may reduce the awareness of these differences and they no longer shape the perceptions people have of others. Equally, ethnicity may provide a source of pride in a distinct identity or an outward signal of difference that could be used for creativity and innovation.
The changing picture of ethnicity over time coincides with increased mobility, induced by historical, political, economic and social reasons. In the context of the identity portfolio, the visible ‘face’ of ethnicity refers to any physical aspects of a people’s appearance that display their ethnic background or ancestry to others. It includes tangible aspects such as names that provide insights into ethnic background, which might or might not be misleading. In any case, it provokes assumptions that, in turn, shape the perceptions of the interaction partners.
Ethnicity and its visible format can act as misleading pointers to cultural differences; for example, stereotyping, and at worst may form the basis for racial discrimination. The devastating impact of this can be seen in the current unrest in the United States. In today’s interconnected world, individuals may interact mainly with people from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Working in a multi-ethnic environment, may reduce the awareness of these differences and they no longer shape the perceptions people have of others. Equally, ethnicity may provide a source of pride in a distinct identity or an outward signal of difference that could be used for creativity and innovation.