Race, Ethnicity and Power

Book excerpt: First published in 1983, Race, Ethnicity and Power focuses on contemporary race and ethnic relations in six countries and looks at the historical context by tracing how various forces and factors, such as group power capabilities, shaped present-day ethnic and race relations. It describes how English settlers, and their descendants used their power historically to control major political, economic and social structures, and to shape the cultural policies of these countries. It explains how ethnic and race relations are best understood by assessing the changing power capabilities of Anglo and non-Anglo groups, and shows how changes in group relations are the consequence of two major factors: modification in group power resources and capabilities, and changes in situational factors. This book will be of interest to students of sociology, political science, ethnic studies and international relations.