Discrimination, Prejudice and Social Inequality Disguised by Race

Alberto Mudjadjo"

Originally, the term "race" was used in zoology to classify animal species based on physical and biological characteristics. Therefore, throughout history, the concept of race has been applied to humans in problematic ways. In zoology, this classification is based on scientific criteria such as morphology, genetics, and geographic distribution. When applied to humans, the concept of race is more complex and controversial, since human racial classification is based on physical characteristics such as skin color, hair texture, and body shape. The human race is not a fixed or scientifically precise biological category, as human genetic variation is more complex and does not fit into defined racial categories. Human racial classification is frequently used to justify discrimination, prejudice, and inequality. The human race is a social and cultural construct, influenced by historical, political, and economic factors, as is the concept of "gender," also a product of social construction. Human genetics is more complex than racial classification suggests, and human genetic variation is greater within racial groups than between them.

Arthur de Gobineau, or simply Count de Gobineau, was a 19th-century French diplomat and writer known for his theory on the inequality of human races. In his work "Essay on the Inequality of Human Races," published in 1853–1855, Gobineau argued that human races are fundamentally different and that the Aryan race is superior to the others. Gobineau's theory is based on the idea that races are fixed and immutable, and that each race has specific characteristics that determine its destiny. He also stated that the Aryan race is the most intelligent and capable, while the other races are inferior and destined for subjugation. Gobineau's theory on the inequality of human races had a significant influence on the development of scientific racism and Nazism. However, his theory was also widely criticized for its lack of scientific basis and its discriminatory nature, as evidenced by the persecution of the Jews. Gobineau's legacy is complex and controversial, as his work has been widely criticized, but it also reflects the attitudes and preconceptions of the time in which he lived. It is crucial to understand the historical context in which he lived and wrote, but we must also criticize and reject the racist and discriminatory ideas he promoted. The concept of race is more problematic when applied to humans than in zoology, so it is crucial to recognize that the human race is a social and cultural construct, not a fixed biological category, and thus human diversity must be approached with sensitivity and respect, avoiding discrimination and prejudice. This thinking fostered by Count de Gobineau fuels racism, which in turn is a serious and persistent problem in today's society, affecting millions of people worldwide. In some countries, racial inequality is evident in all social indicators, such as income, access to healthcare, and education. Racism has a significant impact today in several areas, including: inequality in the labor market. Black people face barriers to obtaining well-paying jobs and are frequently victims of discrimination in the workplace; limited access to formal education. Black students have less access to quality education and are underrepresented in universities; health problems. Black people have less access to quality health services and suffer from higher rates of diseases such as hypertension and diabetes; violence and discrimination. Black people are more likely to experience police violence and discrimination in various spheres of society. Given all these adversities, there are challenges to be overcome in the fight against racism, such as institutional racism, which is rooted in public and private institutions, perpetuating discrimination and inequality. On the other hand, we can also point to the lack of representation.In some countries, such as Brazil, the scarce representation of Black people in the media and politics contributes to the perpetuation of racist stereotypes. Effective public policies are also needed to combat racism and promote racial equality. Racism manifests itself in many ways, including inequality, which is combined with injustice, limiting opportunities and resources for marginalized individuals and groups; mental health, where racism can have negative effects on mental health, including stress, anxiety, and depression; and violence, as racism can lead to violence and hatred, including hate crimes and police brutality. The fight against this evil must be carried out in several areas: education, which is fundamental to combat racism, including the promotion of diversity and inclusion; legislation is also important to protect the rights of marginalized individuals and groups and to combat racial discrimination; and collective action, which is fundamental to combat racism, including community mobilization and the promotion of social change. Against this phenomenon, empathy is important, as it is necessary to understand the experiences and perspectives of marginalized individuals and groups, and to promote compassion as a way of demonstrating empathy, as it can promote compassion and solidarity, helping to create a more just and inclusive society.

2025/12/3