In contemporary debates, how are racial categories primarily understood in sociology?

In sociology, racial categories are primarily understood as social constructs rather than biological facts. This means that these categories are created by society and shaped by cultural beliefs, historical events, and social interactions. For example, the idea of "race" can change over time and can vary between different societies, showing that it is not a fixed or natural division of people. Sociologists study how these categories affect people's experiences, opportunities, and identities, leading to issues like discrimination or privilege. Overall, understanding race in this way helps us see the importance of social context and the need for equity and justice in society.