How do power dynamics influence the construction and perception of ethnicity in the context of Racial Formation Theory?

Power dynamics play a crucial role in shaping how we understand and experience ethnicity, especially within the framework of Racial Formation Theory. This theory suggests that race and ethnicity are not fixed categories but are formed and transformed through social, political, and economic forces. For example, when a dominant group holds power, they can create stereotypes or narratives that define other ethnic groups, often portraying them in a negative light. This can affect how those groups see themselves and how society views them, leading to a cycle of marginalization or privilege based on those constructed identities. Ultimately, understanding these power dynamics helps us see that ethnicity is not just about culture or heritage, but also about the influence of authority and social structures in shaping our identities.