This paper provides a comprehensive review of theoretical approaches to understanding race and ethnicity in contemporary society. It examines key frameworks such as social constructionism, Critical Race Theory, intersectionality, and symbolic interactionism, highlighting their contributions to the study of racial dynamics. Additionally, the paper explores factors influencing race and ethnicity, including historical contexts, socioeconomic factors, political dynamics, and cultural influences. Contemporary issues such as structural racism, ethnic identity formation, multiculturalism vs. assimilation, and the impact of globalization on diversity are analyzed. Methodological approaches, encompassing qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods strategies, are reviewed for their utility in studying race and ethnicity. Future research directions, policy implications, and ethical considerations in this field are also discussed, emphasizing the importance of inclusive practices and social justice.

race, ethnicity, theoretical frameworks, social constructionism, Critical Race Theory, intersectionality, symbolic interactionism, structural racism, ethnic identity, multiculturalism, assimilation, globalization, diversity, qualitative methods, quantitative methods, mixed-methods approaches, policy implications, ethical considerations, social justice