86. Which of the following ideas and theories are helpful in understanding the experiences of
American Indians: the Blauner hypothesis, human capital theory, institutionalized
discrimination, the urban underclass? Be sure to explain each idea or theory and why it is or is
not helpful.
TYPE E
87. The traditional model of assimilation assumes that minority groups will undergo a certain
process of adjustment to U.S. society: first acculturation, then secondary structural integration,
followed by primary structural integration. Does this model apply to the experiences of
American Indians? Why or why not?
TYPE E
88. Among all U.S. minority groups, American Indians have a unique relationship with the
federal government. Describe this relationship, and explain how it has affected American
Indians. In what ways, if any, has the relationship been positive? In what ways, if any, has it
been negative? Compare and contrast this relationship with that between African Americans
and the federal government.
89. Characterize the status of American Indians in terms of acculturation and integration. How
would you account for these patterns?
TYPE E
90. Compare and contrast the situations of Australian aborigines and American Indians in terms
of the dynamics of industrialization, societal organization, goals of the colonizers, relationships
between the colonizers and native peoples, policies of acculturation, and other relevant factors.
91. You read two different perspectives on the issue of American Indian sport mascots. One
argument (by Price and Woo) claimed that Indian symbols and mascots are not offensive while
the other (King, Staurowsky, Baca, Davis, and Pewewardy) argued that they are offensive.
First, briefly outline these two positions. Then, explain which argument you believe is better
and why, using the appropriate concepts from your text.