Race and Ethnicity--A Sociobiological Perspective

Within the realm of race relations, which can certainly be a complex subject, there are subject matter experts whose writings have come to be known as pivotal works on the topic. One of these, Pierre L. Van Den Burghe's "Race and Ethnicity: Essays in Comparative Sociology" , will be discussed and analyzed in this paper.

Overview/Evaluation of the Work

In Van Den Burghe's work, he takes an all encompassing view of the issue of race/ethnic relations and interactions, ranging from the actual mechanics of sociobiological race relations (Van Den Burghe, 1970, p. 42) to issues that although covered by this book of the early 1970s, are present in modern society, such as the issue of Apartheid (Van Den Burghe, 1970, p.173) and the ever present race/ethnicity issues of the United States (Van Den Burghe, 1970, p. 68). What all of this means for the reader or student is that not only will the work provide an excellent overview of the topic, but also explore the many facets of it in the many parts of the world, where various races and nationalities wrestle with the problems of interrelation, coexistence, and tolerance.

The Roots of Sociobiology and Racial/Ethnic Issues

The biological and social dynamics of race relations are given a great deal of weight by Van Den Burghe, and in the process of his research, he uncovers some interesting information that both crush some long standing myths and provides new information. His analysis begins in the days of the early explorers, when various cultures and races were brought together, quite by accident. The homogenized version of this story is that the races/cultures formed strong bonds, and as a result, began to intermarry, creating a harmonious blend of racial friendships. However, Van Den Burghe destroys this myth completely by showing sources that indicate that the mixing of the races and cultures was more a byproduct of sexual exploitation of foreign women and the desire to "breed" more people who could be enslaved than it was out of some sort of kinship (Van Den Burghe, 1970, p. 69). Having put this issue to rest allows for there to be a valid assertion that racial disputes have been in place, from one degree to another, for as long as sociobiological interaction among different peoples has existed.

"Present Day" Sociobiology

As was alluded to earlier in the paper, although Van Den Burghe's work is now several decades old, it is still current in several respects, which clearly shows not only that his observations were valid in his time, but also that a lot of work remains to be done in the racial/ethnic relationship worldwide. Far from an outdated work to be viewed with nostalgia, "Race and Ethnicity" remains a relevant resource that only amplifies the areas to be addressed in today's ever complex world.

Closing Thoughts

By comparing the research and experiences of Van Den Burghe to the issues of today, a great deal of benefit can be derived from his research. As cultures continue to blend in the 21st century, the work of Van Den Burghe is likely to only become more valuable as answers to highly complicated questions are needed. In closing, perhaps the best that can be taken away from this research is that as old as the problems of race and ethnicity are, they are solvable.

References

Van den Berghe, P. L. (1970). Race and Ethnicity: Essays in Comparative Sociology. New York:
Basic Books.