Tim in class

Exploring Unintentional Racism:
The Case of Tim Hanks

by
Robert W. Grossman
Psychology Department, Kalamazoo College
 
Thomas E. Ford
Department of Sociology, Western Michigan University


Introduction

This case study is designed to help you explore your attitudes about race and learn about the complexity of the concept of racism. The case consists of several parts, or sections. After reading each part, we will discuss and also be writing about the issues raised in each part before moving on to the next segment of the case. A handout follows Part III on the social psychology of attribution theory, the concept of unintentional racism, and the idea of institutionalized racism.

While we are waiting to begin, please jot down a few notes about what comes to mind when you think of racism.

After you have done this, introduce yourself to the people next to you and discuss your thoughts and feelings concerning racism.

Some things you might want to think about include:

Please do not go on to the next section until asked by your instructor to do so!

Go to Part I—“Tim Hanks”


Date Posted: 01/26/04 nas

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Originally published at http://www.sciencecases.org/racism/racism.asp

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