Reply to comment

 I think you make an interesting point about the types of feelings and reactions of groups and individuals regarding race. However, it seems to me that an intrinsic part of racism, as with sexism, classism, and many other "isms" or "others" is the reactions and interpretations of the individual, or "outsider." I agree that our differences can simply provoke curiosities without intended qualitative values. But consider how the outsider themselves feel. Perhaps there is no active intention of oppression or degradation, but it may still exist. For example, the questions people can ask when they are merely being curious can actually be unintentionally disrespectful and offensive. And I think much of that has to do with this whole zero-sum game thing we've been talking about. In many ways, we choose to be the way we are; we choose at least some of our characteristics. If we have chosen them, then we often think they are superior to their alternatives, and often judgement -- conscious or otherwise -- often ensues on those who have chosen differently. If we could all find a way to acknowledge differences without placing qualitative values on them, then -- theoretically -- we could eradicate racism.