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Ethnic Boundary Theory: Marking, Shifting, and the Twilight of Ethnicity

Explore the concept of ethnic boundaries, including boundary marking and boundary shifts, and the evolving significance of ethnicity in society. Discover the factors that influence identification and the role of symbolic ethnicity.

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Ethnic Boundary Theory: Marking, Shifting, and the Twilight of Ethnicity

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  1. Ethnic Boundary Theory Large and Small-Scale Ethnic Boundaries Boundary Marking & Boundary Shifts Twilight Of Ethnicity Symbolic Ethnicity “Ethnic Options”

  2. Large-Scale Ethnic Boundaries Small-Scale (White) Ethnic Boundaries Ethnic Boundaries

  3. Richard Alba • Boundary Marking: Occurs when ethnic distinctions are maintained [by group members, not outsiders] by language, food, culture, or other “markers” that identify group members to each other and to outsiders. • Boundary Shifting: Individuals: Occurs when individuals move across an ethnic boundary (structurally and culturally) Groups: Occurs when boundaries become less salient (e.g., occupations) or previously recognized distinctions are removed (e.g., religious celebrations) Boundary Marking & Boundary Shifts

  4. Robert Park: Because • of “straight-line” assimilation. • Richard Alba: Because of a “twilight of ethnicity” leaving social class, not ethnicity, as the key determinant of outcomes. • Emile Durkheim: Because of a shift from a “mechanistic”to an “organic”division of labor. Ascription matters less than achievement. Does Ethnicity Still Matter? No!

  5. Herbert Gans: The vestigial value of “Symbolic Ethnicity” • Heritage Festivals • Homeland Tourism • Ancestral Language Class • Factors Which Increase Identification • Generational Component • Socioeconomic Status • Intact Families • Country Of Origin • Mary Waters: Whites are still capable of taking advantage of their • “Ethnic Options” Does Ethnicity Still Matter? Yes!

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