Why do people act racist? What motivates them to think that way?

Question

If they pick it up from parents, how do the parents become racist?

Answer 1

Racism is probably one of our oldest behavoiurs - it all goes back to some ancient time when one tribe didn't like another just because they were different... Perhaps they worshiped a different God, dressed (or didn't!) differently, or still practiced things like Cannibalism.

Over time, these hatreds grew so deep that people were willing to go to war over them - and thus the hate was spread to another generation... and another... and so on.

Now take this same hatred, and pass it down for thousands of years - when it becomes an integral part of a societies history. Unknowingly, Hatred is being taught in the schools - as well as being passed down at home.

In our modern world, racism is still being used to say "We're better than YOU are" - but thankfully the practice is declining. Intelligent thought is replacing outdated stereotypes - but I don't think it will ever truly come to an end.

As long as one person is doing better than another (be it in life, financially, romantically, etc.) - there will always be someone willing to point a finger at someone other than themselves. (in their mind) Picking on an entire group just makes it easier than confronting ONE individual.

Racial and cultural diversity is what has shaped our society. Without it, there would have been NO trade, NO exchance of ideas, and constant war between the "races". In the end, there would have been only one (or NONE) race - and then their hatred would be turned upon themselves. The tall would hate the short, old would hate the young... it would never end until there was only ONE person left standing...

Answer 2

It is human nature. Unfortunately if you have a bad experience with someone, you may subconciously attribute things about them to be what is "wrong" about them. For example, if you were treated badly by a person of a different race, you might get a feeling that all those people are just mean. With race, its the FIRST and most obvious difference so anything negative will be associated with the entire group.

We try to not do this most of us, by being aware of this tendancy. Then you have those who learned hatred by example and what they were taught.

I dont think we'll ever be free of racism. But being aware of our natural tendency and not painting everyone with the same brush, not labeling.....that's the key.

Answer 3

I think it's a learned behavior, a poor one. Most pick up racism as a small child from parents and members of their community. I always stressed love and tolerance w/ my kids and they don't focus on color. When they make a comment that is unkind or inappropriate I point it out, strongly. It starts at home.

Answer 4

I think it's easier to blame other people for your problems, than to hold yourself responsible for them.

Answer 5

Envy has a lot to do with it.