Which term best describes viewing an ethnic group as having a fixed set of traits and applying them to all members?

Which term best describes viewing an ethnic group as having a fixed set of traits and applying them to all members?

• A. Collectivism
• B. Essentialism
• C. Constructivism
• D. Individualism

Answer: (B)

Viewing an ethnic group as having a fixed set of traits that apply to all its members is essentialism. It treats group membership as defining immutable characteristics and applies them universally, which leads to overgeneralization and stereotyping while ignoring individual variation and context. This stance can underpin prejudice and discriminatory assumptions. By contrast, collectivism emphasizes group goals over individual ones, constructivism sees categories as socially constructed, and individualism focuses on personal autonomy and uniqueness. Essentialism best captures the idea of fixed, universal traits assigned to every member of a group.

Viewing an ethnic group as having a fixed set of traits that apply to all its members is essentialism. It treats group membership as defining immutable characteristics and applies them universally, which leads to overgeneralization and stereotyping while ignoring individual variation and context. This stance can underpin prejudice and discriminatory assumptions. By contrast, collectivism emphasizes group goals over individual ones, constructivism sees categories as socially constructed, and individualism focuses on personal autonomy and uniqueness. Essentialism best captures the idea of fixed, universal traits assigned to every member of a group.