In class we discussed race. Race is socially constructed and has become normal part in our everyday lives, though we don't always realize it. Because of our every day environment, it is almost impossible to avoid forming certain stereotypes. Stereotypes are constantly portrayed on television shows and movies. By doing a demo in class, we were able to recognize how people classify things in groups. One thing that I found interesting was that a lot of people classified them by exactly what they saw. Some classified them by what they looked like their function would be. It was funny though, because Mr. Salituro brought it to our attention that although it looked like a ball could perform a certain function, like a soccer ball, it could be much easier to play actual soccer with one of the other balls on display. This demo really showed that we classify based on looks. No matter a persons level of intelligence or their background, first impressions are always based upon appearance and stereotypes.
We also did an online activity that had us categorize certain people based on their ethnic background. It was shocking to see how many people looked completely different than their actual ethnic background. But this just goes to show that race is a made up phenomenon. It doesn't exist, but we as people created it. Without even talking to a person, we judge. They may be the exact same racial makeup as you, yet you perceive them differently merely because they don't look like you. We often don't realize it, but it happens.