Dominant group

Definition

In the context of racial and ethnic relations, a dominant group is the social group that holds the most power, resources, and privileges in a society. This group often sets societal norms and standards that other groups are measured against or must conform to.

Related terms

Privilege: Unearned access to resources and social power that members of the dominant group receive at birth.

Social Stratification: The ranking of individuals and groups in any given society based on wealth, power, prestige, or other valued resources.

Minority Group: A category of people who experience relative disadvantage as compared to members of a dominant social group