Question

What is semantically problematic about the "minority group" from a symbolic interactionist perspective?

What is semantically problematic about the term "minority group" from a symbolic interactionist perspective?

Answer 1

Introduction:

Semantics: People use various meanings of a word while referring in writings, verbal communications. Researchers evaluate the meanings of the words, though the words seem to be similar. There may be slight differences in their synonyms.

For example, cafeteria and canteen may seem to be similar. However, they distinguish in the types.

The semantic issue: It is a common challenge people face when they refer to the same words in different scenarios. Although the words sound, the same, they may confuse if used inappropriately.

Minority group: The people belonging to this group are criticized for their color and racial backgrounds. They face humiliations and teasing in schools, colleges, and workplaces.

For example, the minority group in the US is Hispanics.

Symbolic interactionist theory: It refers to the way people communicate with each other. People form short term and long-term associations or acquaintances. They share mutual bonds and respect other individuals.

Analysis: People communicate in various social platforms and media such as Facebook, Twitter and use hashtags. People may write the word “minority” in different contexts such as ethnicity, color, race, nationality.

For example, Justin, watching a football match of Manchester United and Arsenal, gets thrilled when his favorite team Arsenal wins. He posts on social media that it’s a win for Arsenal and writes with a hashtag of ethnic pride.

People comment on the post and replied that the post talked about one’s minority. Although Justin did not wish to hurt anyone’s feelings, people felt it the other way.

This is a semantic problem that arises when symbolic interactions occur in social platforms.

Conclusion: Semantic problems lead to confusion and challenges to people interpreting the words which have the same meanings. We have discussed the problem people face when they do not understand words in the social context.