Ethnic Boundaries and Identity in Plural Societies

This paper reviews studies of ethnicity in plural societies. The literature concentrates on the social networks of ethnic groups, the use of social capital derived from these networks, & ethnic identity. I give particular attention to studies that consider how interpersonal networks within ethni...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Annual review of sociology 2002-01, Vol.28, p.327-357
Main Author: Sanders, Jimy M
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Boundaries
Cultural Capital
Ethnic Groups
Ethnic Identity
Ethnic Neighborhoods
Ethnicity
Plural Societies
Social Networks
Transnationalism
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Summary:This paper reviews studies of ethnicity in plural societies. The literature concentrates on the social networks of ethnic groups, the use of social capital derived from these networks, & ethnic identity. I give particular attention to studies that consider how interpersonal networks within ethnic communities influence the degree of closure in social boundaries & the degree to which ethnic identity is retained. Most of the studies considered here have been published during the past two decades. However, a few earlier studies are considered so as to frame recent work in an appropriate context. Two main research foci characterize contemporary studies -- forms of economic action undertaken by the immigrant generation & the socialization experiences of their offspring. Related areas of study also addressed in this review include how participation in ethnic churches, metropolitan & regional concentrations of ethnic populations, & transnationalism influence ethnic groups' experiences. I conclude by suggesting a few directions for future research. 195 References. Adapted from the source document.
ISSN:0360-0572
DOI:10.1146/annurev.soc28.110601.140741