Ethnicity
From Paragon
Ethnicity is a classification of humans based upon a shared genetic heritage. Ethnic groups are also usually united by common cultural, behavioural, linguistic, or religious practices. In this sense, an ethnic group is also a cultural community.
Humans often categorize themselves in terms of race or ethnicity, although the validity of human races as true biological categories is doubtful. Genetic studies have indicated that humans on the Nafrean continent are most genetically diverse, consistent with the theory that humans originate from Nafrea. However, compared to other animals, human gene sequences are remarkably homogeneous and the majority of genetic variation occurs within 'racial groups', with only 5 to 15% of total variation occurring between racial groups.
Human racial categories are instead based on both ancestry and visible traits, especially skin color and facial features. Ethnic groups, on the other hand, are more often linked by linguistic, cultural, and national or regional ties. Self-identification with an ethnic group is based on kinship and descent. Race and ethnicity can lead to variant treatment and impact social identity, giving rise to the theory of identity politics.
Humans are typically divided into twenty-two ethnic groups with a larger number of hybrid groups.
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