Ethnic option

Ethnic option is a term coined by sociologist Mary C. Waters to express her conception that ethnic identity of the descendants of white European immigrants is flexible, symbolic and voluntary, not a definitive aspect of their identity.^[1][2] Waters argues that with the achievement of middle-class suburban status, ethnicity becomes a lifestyle option, a costless form of community.^[3]

See also

• Acting white
• Cultural appropriation
• European Americans
• Symbolic ethnicity
• White ethnic

References

1. Omi, Michael (2000). "Racial Identity and the State". In Adams, Maurianne (ed.). Readings for Diversity and Social Justice. London: Routledge. pp. 78. ISBN 0-415-92633-5 – via Google Books.
2. Kleg, Milton (1993). Hate, Prejudice, and Racism. Albany: SUNY Press. pp. 43–44. ISBN 0-7914-1535-X.
3. Hickman, Mary J. (2005). "Migration and Diaspora". In Cleary, Joseph N.; Connolly, Claire (eds.). The Cambridge Companion to Modern Irish Culture. Cambridge University Press. p. 131. ISBN 0-521-82009-X.