In their essay "Racial Formations," Michael Omi and Howard Winant argue that race is not a fixed or natural category, but rather a social construct that changes over time and across different contexts. They explain that race is quantified through various methods, such as the census, surveys, and official documents, which rely on self-identification or externally imposed categorizations based on physical traits, ancestry, or cultural practices.
The quantification of race has significant consequences for minority groups, as it can reinforce stereotypes, stigmatize certain identities, and perpetuate inequalities. For example, the racial categories used in the census and other official documents can shape political representation, resource allocation, and research priorities. These categories may also obscure or marginalize multiracial or ethnic identities, as well as the experiences of immigrants, refugees, and other groups that do not fit neatly into existing categories.
Furthermore, the quantification of race can also contribute to the internalization of racial hierarchies and the construction of racial identities. Omi and Winant argue that race is not just a matter of individual identity or prejudice, but also a structural feature of society that shapes social relations, institutions, and cultural meanings. By quantifying race, society reinforces the idea that race is a fixed and essential characteristic of individuals, rather than a socially constructed category that reflects historical and political forces. This can have a negative impact on minority groups, who may face discrimination, prejudice, and other forms of marginalization based on their racial identity.