What is the Difference between Race and Ethnicity?

Are Race and Ethnicity the same? We often find people using the terms race and ethnicity. Sometimes these two terms are also used interchangeably. But is that right? Well, these two words have different meanings and therefore it becomes essential to have a clear concept of their meaning.

Explore this to learn about the correct and proper utilization of these two words and also ensure they are used at the right place and in the right context.

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What Does Race Mean?

Race is generally used to describe the physical characteristics of an individual. Characteristics ranging from skin color to the eye color, the facial structure to the hair color, those things that are a part of your core characteristics. The term 'Race' is physiological in nature and is used to refer to various different populations within particular species. Researchers nowadays agree that there is no genetic difference among races.

What Does Ethnicity Mean?

Ethnicity, on the other hand, is used to describe the cultural identity of an individual. It includes aspects such as religion, cultural traits, food habits, clothing styles, the language spoken by these people and much more. 

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Difference between Race and Ethnicity

#1. Race is used to denote the heritage that you have inherited by birth, you were born into it or with it. On the other hand, Ethnicity is more about aspects of a culture that you have learned over time or due to regular and constant exposure.

#2. Race is something you cannot alter as you are born into it. You always have the choice of altering and even practicing divert cultural practices and traditions.

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#3. Race divides people on the basis of the physical characteristics they were born with. Ethnicity, on the other hand, refers to a set of people who adopt the same set of cultural practices.

#4. Ethnicity is often used by people to achieve a sense of belonging by sharing the same set of cultural practices. Giving a definition to their existence by sharing a set of concrete practices and rituals through which they connect and identify with each other. Race, on the other hand, does not give rise to a sense of togetherness, on the contrary, it causes is used for creating a divide between people, using aspects such as skin color, facial type etc.

#5. Race is a term that is coined by the society and gives a sense of division. Ethnicity, on the other hand, is adopted by people willingly and is used to create a sense of belonging.

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