Racial prejudice partly motivates White people’s approval of use of force.
Group of answer choices True False
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: True
Explanation:
Research in social psychology and political science supports the idea that racial prejudice can partly motivate White people’s approval of the use of force, particularly in contexts involving law enforcement or military action. This does not mean that all White people approve of the use of force because of racial bias, but studies indicate a statistically significant correlation between racially prejudiced attitudes and greater support for punitive or aggressive policies, especially toward marginalized groups.
For example, several studies in the U.S. context have demonstrated that individuals who score higher on measures of racial resentment or implicit bias are more likely to support harsh policing tactics, longer prison sentences, and use of force by police, particularly against Black individuals. These attitudes are often tied to stereotypes that associate Black people with crime or danger, which can lead to justifying or minimizing the consequences of violence used against them.
Additionally, research has shown that political messaging that invokes racialized fear—such as images of unrest or criminality associated with people of color—can influence White people’s policy preferences, including increased support for aggressive law enforcement.
This relationship is not purely individual but also structural, shaped by historical narratives and systemic inequalities. Media portrayals, political rhetoric, and cultural norms contribute to reinforcing associations between race and danger or disorder. These biases can unconsciously influence perceptions of when and against whom force is considered appropriate.
In summary, while many factors influence someone’s stance on the use of force, racial prejudice is a documented and measurable influence for some individuals. Understanding this helps in addressing the deeper roots of social inequality and reforming systems like policing and criminal justice.