What does ethnicity refer to?

Ethnicity primarily refers to a social group that shares a common national or cultural tradition. This encompasses shared cultural traits such as language, heritage, traditions, and sometimes religion. Ethnic groups often maintain a distinct identity based on these shared characteristics, which can influence social dynamics, community affiliations, and individual identities.

Cultural traditions can include food, clothing, festivals, and values, which contribute to the sense of belonging among members of the same ethnic group. This concept is essential in understanding social interactions, community resilience, and the diversity present in societies.

The other definitions do not adequately capture the essence of what ethnicity represents. Biological differences pertain more to genetic variations rather than cultural aspects. Temporary social classifications do not account for the enduring nature of ethnic identities, while a universal definition of human behavior does not apply since behaviors can vary widely across different ethnicities.