Comprehensive, easy to read, and exceptionally well organized, this book provides an in-depth look at race and ethnic relations from a variety of social and cultural perspectives. Understanding the relationships between race and ethnic relations and minority group politics helps to provide a critical understanding of American politics in general. The book uses historical examples as well as current experiences of ethnic groups , to illustrate the complexity of the "melting pot" of groups and minority subcultures in America. The book begins by discussing basic terminology and concepts then moves to theories and processes of assimilation and adaptation, and the factors which may inhibit or speed up their progress. Public policy is discussed in great detail, particularly the role the public policy plays in placing minority groups in minority status. In turn, the book also deals with how minority groups use public policy to cope with and modify that status.For anyone interested in American or minority politics, or who would like to consider an alternative organization of traditional political discussions. Read Less