Is it wrong to ask a question about race? If not, what would be a more appropriate way to ask a question regarding racial issues?
2007-03-12 21:17:41 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
I don't think it is wrong to ask any question as long as it is asked in a respectful manner. However there is always someone willing to take offense no matter how a question is asked.
2007-03-12 21:24:28 · answer #1 · answered by Patti C 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You can talk about race, but don't EVER ask "What are you?" or if they are from a particular country, ESPECIALLY the latter. Only ask about a person's ethnicity if it comes up on it's own, not out of the blue. Other things are fine to talk about, but if someone seems uneasy or is vague with their answers or the discussion, don't push it.
2007-03-13 21:42:26 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why is race an issue? We're all the same under the skin.
You can explore ethnic background by discussing your own with the person.
2007-03-12 21:21:16 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Of course not!!
It is OK to ask..
But there are some good methods..
You can go for.."Hey ! You have beautiful eyes!! Are you from this particular country (like India,Brazil)?? "
The person will himself/herself tell you about his/her roots.
You can first compliment the person and then ask the question. This may increase the trust he/she has on you and would not get offended. Just smile when you are offering the compliment so that it looks genuine and not a staircase to the question that follows.
Just be confident and go on!!
2007-03-13 00:47:49 · answer #4 · answered by Liberty tower 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
It's appropriate when your conversation partner is okay about it. Although I myself dont find it wrong to question or be questioned about race, but it might to other people.
2007-03-12 21:21:02 · answer #5 · answered by williams 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it depends upon the context of the question. If you are curious about another's culture, ask them politely to tell you about the custom. Most people would be happy to inform you.
2007-03-12 21:48:56 · answer #6 · answered by Tellin' U Da Truth! 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
No, it's not wrong to discuss race.
2007-03-12 22:08:39 · answer #7 · answered by ericscribener 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋