B Nationalities & Ethnic Groups
The population of the US is a unique phenomenon because people from all over contributed and are still contributing to the American nation. No wonder, one can find there 106 ethnic groups living in closely fitted communities.
To describe this phenomenon of the American population sociologists use deferent theories and notions. They are:
a) “Melting Pot of Nations”
It is both a theory and a notion used to describe the process of assimilation of different ethnic groups into a single nation with unique identity and culture. With the US the complete “melting” into a single nation occurred relatively quickly within 2 or 3 generations. Thus, the first settlers who came to the territory identified themselves as the representatives of various ethnic groups/ nationalities (Dutch, English, French, Spanish, etc.), but as the time went by the new generations started to name themselves “Americans”.
b) “Salad Bowl”(Mosaic or Tapestry)
Another notion that describes the process of assimilation when ethnic groups try to preserve their identity and culture within a common nation. In a salad one can tell different ingredients, but it still remains a unique salad with various ingredients. In terms of American nation, the people call themselves “American”, but often identify themselves with their ancestry (origin) – “Afro-American”, “Italian American”, “Irish American”, etc. Besides, many of the ethnic groups live in very closely fit communities like “China-towns” or “Little Italys”, where they even don’t need have to learn the language and where they can find a job easily. The only connection with the outer world for them is the younger generation that knows the language and has got an education. These communities try to preserve the culture of the land they come from. Thus, the American culture is made diverse.
The diversity brought about two more notions like multiculturalism and political correctness.
c) “Multiculturalism”
It’s a notion that describes a society as a composition of various cultures and ethnic identities. Multiculturalism is a society “at ease with the rich tapestry of human life and the desire amongst people to express their own identity in the manner they see fit.
d) “Political Correctness”
It is a term used to refer to language, ideas, or policies that address perceived or actual discrimination against or alienation of politically, socially or economically disadvantaged groups. The term usually implies that these social considerations are excessive or of a purely "political" nature. These groups most prominently include those defined by gender, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation and disability. E.g. “Intellectually disabled” instead mentally retarded; “African American” in place of Black and Negro, “Native American” - Indian, “First Nations” - Indian (in Canada); Gender-neutral terms such as “firefighter”- fireman and firewoman, “police officer” - policeman and policewoman; Value-free terms describing physical disabilities, such as “visually impaired” blind and “hearing impaired” – deaf; Value-free cultural terms, such as “Holiday season” and “Winter holiday”- Christmas
NB! Betty Crocker is an image of an average American woman. The image was first introduced by General Mills, inc. on their products. It changed throughout the years to reflect not only changing styles but also the tendencies of a “melting pot” society. In 1996 they “fed” 75 photos of different women to computer to create the new image of “Betty”! (see the picture)
Ethnic Groups that Live in the USA