Although the term "ethnicity" is recent, the sense of kinship, group solidarity, and common culture to which it refers is as old as the historical record. Ethnic communities have been present in every period and on every continent, and have played an important role in all societies. The sense

of a common ethnicity remains a major focus of identification for individuals even today. Ethnic community and identity are also often associated with conflict, particularly with political struggles in various parts of the world. Yet there is no essential connection between ethnicity and conflict,

and in many instances, relations may in fact be peaceful and cooperative.

This Oxford Reader offers explanations for the often contentious nature of ethnicity, its worldwide effects, and the possible means for overcoming conflicts. It includes extracts by all the major contributors to debates on ethnicity, including Weber, Brass, Hechter, and Horowitz, and focuses on

ethnic groups in the Middle East, the Balkans, Africa, and North America, as well as other areas.

"Ethnicity has become the major source of social and political conflict in both developing and developed societies. A subject as multifaceted and contentious as this merits the comprehensive and judicious coverage which this reader uniquely provides. Its appearance is most welcome." --Michael

Hechter, author of Internal Colonization

"More than sixty readings cover a broad range of interpretations and data, while the succinct history of the concept of ethnicity provides a key to understanding its development. The authors' introductory essay is a model of concise definition and objective evaluation of diverse viewpoints...a firm

framework that readers can use to make their own evaluations of the future of ethnicity." --John Armstrong, author of Nations before Nationalism

Although the term 'ethnicity' is recent, the sense of kinship, group solidarity, and common culture to which it refers is as old as the historical record: ethnic communities have been present in every period and continent. Ethnic identity is often associated with conflict, particularly with political struggles in various parts of the world, but there is no essential connection between ethnicity and conflict. So why is the nature of ethnicity so contentious? Can ethnic conflict ever be resolved? This Oxford Reader includes extracts by all the major contributors to debates on this important concept.

Includes bibliographical references (p. [423]-429) and index.

Mark Thatcher is Lecturer in Public Administration and Public Policy, Department of Government, London School of Economics.