Racial and Ethnic Groups

Grounded in a socio-historical perspective with engaging stories and first person accounts.

Racial and ethnic relations in the United States are at a dynamic and exciting time. Major events are shaping our society, such as population and immigration changes, the election of the first African-American president, and increasing diversity throughout our society.

Racial and Ethnic Groups, 12^th edition helps students understand the changing dynamics of the U.S. population. By using a socio-historical perspective, the author frames issues by examining our history, exploring the current situation, and discussing the concerns for the future.

Filled with first person accounts, such as “Listen to Our Voices,” brief story chapter openers, and “Student Voices” questions, Schaefer’s Racial and Ethnic Groups actively engages students in the study of racial and ethnic relations.

Major changes include the introduction of “Global View” boxes, and new discussions of high-interest topics, such as African immigration and color-blind racism.

Richard T. Schaefer grew up in Chicago in the 1960's, at a time when neighborhoods were going through transitions in ethnic and racial composition.  He found himself fascinated by what was happening, how people were reacting, and how these changes were affecting neighborhoods and people's jobs.  His interest in social issues caused him to gravitate to more sociology courses at Northwestern University, where he eventually received a B.A. in sociology and later earning his M.A. and Ph.D in sociology from the University of Chicago.

Dr. Schaefer went on to become a professor of sociology. He has taught sociology and courses on multiculturalism for 30 years. He has been invited to give special presentations to students and faculty on racial and ethnic diversity in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio and Texas.

Dr. Schaefer is the wuthor of Race and Ethncity in the United States, 4/e (Prentice Hall, 2007). Dr. Schaefer is the General Editor of the fourthcoming three-volume Encyclopedia of Race, Ethnicity and Society (2008). He served as president of the Midwest Sociological Society from 1994-1995. In recognition of his achievments in undergraduate teaching, he was named Vincent de Paul Professor of Sociology in 2004.