In crisis? Call or text 988 free · confidential · 24/7
Counseling

Does Attraction Make a Racist?

Answered by David Johnson, MSW, LICSW

Question

If I find people of other ethnic groups very physically unattractive does this mean I am a racist if I don’t let this distaste affect my behaviors?

Finding people of other ethnic groups physically unattractive does not make you a racist. Racism is defined as:

  1. a belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human races determine cultural or individual achievement, usually involving the idea that one's own race is superior and has the right to rule others.
  2. a policy, system of government, etc., based upon or fostering such a doctrine; discrimination.
  3. hatred or intolerance of another race or other races.

If you don’t allow this distaste affect your behaviors as it relates to discrimination, hatred or intolerance then there is no racism. The racial differences developed due to geographic separation. Natural selection facilitates multiple generations to select the attractive look through genetics of the next generation of partners in a particular geographic location. So you are not alone in your preference.

About the Expert

David Johnson

MSW, LICSW

Champlin, United States of America

Specialties

Dissociative Disorders, Anger Management, Gay Lesbian Issues, Personality Disorders, Child or Adolescent Issues, Divorce, Trauma and PTSD, Life Coaching, Psychosis, Mood Disorders, Parenting, Spirituality, Anxiety or Fears, Relationship Issues, Impulse Control Disorders, Elderly Persons Disorders, Women, Loss or Grief, Thinking Disorders, Depression, Finding Your Purpose in Life

License

my_license #2338