How do structural functionalists and conflict theorists approach race differently?

Structural functionalists and conflict theorists approach race and ethnicity differently

Explanation:

While structural functionalists approach race with some level of discrimination based on race inequality, where race and ethnicity is a determinant of resource inequality; conflict theorists approach race as a power struggle between the bourgeois (ruling class) and the minority groups.

According to the structural functionalism, it is necessary to have racial and ethnic differences in a society. They believe like every other aspect even racial inequality has a positive side and can help with the maintenance of social order. On the contrary, Conflict theorist see it differently. They believe there might be a strife among inter-group over racial and ethnic differences as both majority and minority groups have different sets of interests and might discover themselves at odds if they attempt to shelter and protect them.

Explanation:

Nash (1964) up fronts his argument over the ways racism can contribute to the dominant group. For instance, he believes racism morally defends a racially unequal society. He made his point by referring to the slave owners from antebellum south who justified slavery by suggesting black people were in every way inferior to the whites and preferred slavery over freedom. Another support of functionalist perspective on racism comes from the strong bond between in-groups members that is formed by ostracism of out-group members. A sense of solidarity promotes when there is no access given to the outsiders. Conflict theory however sees it as an outcome of struggle over resources that benefit high class members who actually own the means of production.