ABSTRACT
This chapter explores Robert E. Park's approach to race and ethnic relations. Subjective factors such as attitudes, motives, and meanings are derived from individual experience but also reflect the culture and the history of social groups. The importance placed upon the subjective aspects of action and the symbolic dimension of group life urges scrutiny of the mass media, art, and literature. The sociologist was responsible for recognizing the coherence between ideas, activities, and institutions. Park considered status groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities and occupational groupings, to be more important than social classes in the analysis of collective action. According to Park, in most cases, the resolution of social conflict involves negotiation and adjustment through the process of communication. Park was clear about the beneficial effects of particularistic, minority group cultures and parochial group affiliations in enhancing individual self-esteem, social cohesion, and group morale.
