This essay explores the historical and sociological evolution of racism, tracing its transformation from early biological and cultural forms to contemporary economic expressions. While classical racism was rooted in pseudo-scientific notions of racial superiority, modern racism has become more subtle, often serving as a tool for legitimizing labor exploitation, particularly in the context of immigration. A key focus is placed on the agricultural sector in Italy, where migrant workers—especially in regions like Tuscany—face systemic forms of exploitation through temporary contracts, subcontracting practices, and exclusionary immigration policies. These dynamics give rise to new forms of racialized labor relations and institutional racism, where subordination extends beyond economics to include symbolic and cultural dimensions. The essay argues that racism and exploitation are deeply interconnected and cannot be addressed separately. To counter these trends, it calls for inclusive policies and a cultural shift that places social justice and integration at the center of public debate.
University of Siena, Italy - ORCID: 0000-0003-2823-6544
Chapter Title
Razzismi. Dall’inferiorità della razza allo sfruttamento del lavoro
Authors
Fabio Berti
DOI
10.36253/979-12-215-0715-7.08
Peer Reviewed
Publication Year
2025
Copyright Information
© 2025 Author(s)
Content License
Metadata License
Book Title
Le parole della discriminazione
Book Subtitle
Sessismo, omofobia, razzismo, ‘childismo’, abilismo
Editors
Irene Biemmi, Alessandra Viviani
Peer Reviewed
Number of Pages
102
Publication Year
2025
Copyright Information
© 2025 Author(s)
Content License
Metadata License
Publisher Name
Firenze University Press, USiena Press
DOI
10.36253/979-12-215-0715-7
ISBN Print
979-12-215-0714-0
eISBN (pdf)
979-12-215-0715-7
eISBN (epub)
979-12-215-0716-4
Series Title
Politiche e strategie per l’uguaglianza di genere e l’inclusione. Temi, ricerche e prospettive dei CUG delle Università di Siena e Firenze
Series ISSN
3035-5907
Series E-ISSN
3035-5699