Classical Marxist analysis often argued that everything is ultimately determined by the economy, even though sometimes it is through many complicated steps. Can economic factors explain racism?
A) No, almost none of the factors associated with racism can be understood in economic terms.
B) The link between race and class is very strong, and almost all sociologists accept that race is primarily a way to keep the working class divided.
C) The link between race and class is useful and important, but it doesn't provide a satisfactory explanation for all forms of racism.
D) Yes, although the economic origins of racism may be very distant now, ultimately racism began with economic factors.
E) Yes, it was the need for cheap labor that originally created American racial divisions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

While the link between race and class is important in understanding many forms of racism, it does not provide a complete or satisfactory explanation for all forms of racism. Racism is a complex phenomenon that is influenced by a variety of social, cultural, historical, and psychological factors. Although economic factors may play a role in shaping racial attitudes and behaviors, they are not the sole or even the primary drivers of racism. Other factors, such as ideology, power relations, historical legacies of slavery and colonialism, and social identity, also play a critical role in shaping the dynamics of racism.

Classical Marxist Analysis Often Argued That Everything Is Ultimately Determined