Yes, I think this is basically correct, but racism usually flourishes where the races are socially, economically, and politically separated or divided from one another. The race being portrayed as superior, will demonize the race being excluded to foster hate/fear among its members.

In a diverse society like today's America, where children of all races are allowed to play together, attend school and church together, participate in clubs and sports together, all in an atmosphere of an integrated, accepting society, it would be hard for racism to take root. Most Americans today know from personal experience that the racial propaganda coming form those who hate/fear is a lie.

America was not alway an integrated society where the principles of equality were practiced towards all Americans. The America of the deep south was a very segregated place, where well disciplined little boys and girls were not allowed to associate with lowly blanks. Also, schools, buses, stores, restaurants, sports, and even the military were all racially segregated. This was the America of only 50 years ago, so I think to a very great extent, racism is learned at a very, very early age, where the target of racism has been excluded. In this way the lie can be spread, with little chance of rebuttal from reality.

Regards,

LelandJ.