According to Fredrik Barth's theories about ethnic identity, ethnic boundaries are most stable when
A)ethnic groups share a common ancestor.
B)ethnic groups occupy different ecological niches.
C)ethnic groups share the same nation-state.
D)the members of the ethnic groups are highly educated, as with postcolonial states.
E)ethnic groups are culturally very similar and tend to pursue the same goals.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Barth, ethnic boundaries are most stable when ethnic groups occupy different ecological niches. This is because when different groups occupy different ecological niches, there is less competition for resources and less likelihood of conflict. In this situation, ethnic boundaries can be maintained and even strengthened over time.

According to Fredrik Barth's Theories About Ethnic Identity, Ethnic Boundaries