Article on Racial Profiling: In An Age of Terrorism

In the article Racial Profiling: In An Age of Terrorism and Mexican's in New York there are many examples of how individuals are paid attention to based on physical traits, language skills, and lifestyles. 

Racial profiling isn't a new concept but became a very common practice especially after the 09/11 attacks on the US. Racial profiling refers to a method utilized by police and private investigators where individuals are identified as more likely to be associated with a specific crime because of their race, ethnicity, nationality or religion. After the horrific terrorist act against the US on 09/11 many Middle Eastern men were singled out and discriminated against because of those horrific acts and the result of racial profiling. 

Let's define racism and discrimination. Racism is a set of beliefs that uses biological factors to explain and justify inequalities between racial and ethnic groups. Discrimination, intentional, or unintentional is the unequal treatment of racial or ethnic groups without considering merit, ability, or past performance. 

Although racial profiling is accepted by the US government as a means to protect the United States from terrorism, it also leaves the door open for racism and discrimination. Joan Ferrante uses Tiger Woods as an example in her explanation of social construction. In the United States Tiger Woods is viewed as an African American although his mother is from Thailand and his father is African American. Wood's views himself as equally African American and Asian American. Most individuals despite mixed backgrounds are generally identified as black, white, or Asian. 

Current events play an enormous role in affecting public opinion. Racial profiling that became increasingly popular after 09/11 is a great example. Even while many in the law enforcement and government communities say the method is a necessary tool in fighting terror, it remains one of the more controversial policies that have grown in practice following 09/11.

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