What does racism refer to?

Racism refers to the belief that some races are superior to others. This ideology suggests that certain racial groups possess inherent differences in traits, abilities, or qualities, leading to the view that these groups are superior or inferior in various respects. This belief can manifest in attitudes of prejudice, discrimination, and systemic inequalities that disadvantage certain racial groups while privileging others.

The other options do not accurately define racism. The idea of all races being equal contradicts the very notion of racism, which is predicated on superiority and inferiority. Promoting harmony among all races is an anti-racist stance that seeks cooperation and understanding, while a philosophy advocating for racial segregation explicitly supports the separation of races, which aligns more with historical practices of racism rather than its definition. Thus, recognizing the superiority and inferiority of races is central to understanding racism.