Which concept suggests that people are defined by fixed characteristics?

The concept that suggests people are defined by fixed characteristics is essentialism. This theory posits that certain traits, behaviors, and identities are inherent and immutable aspects of individuals or groups. Essentialism often implies that categories of identity, such as race, gender, or sexuality, are seen as natural, universal, and stable across different contexts. This perspective can lead to oversimplified understandings of complex social identities and can overlook the fluidity and changing nature of these characteristics over time and across different cultural contexts.

In contrast, constructivism emphasizes that identities are constructed through social processes and interactions, suggesting a more dynamic understanding of personal and group characteristics. Pluralism acknowledges the coexistence of multiple identities and viewpoints, advocating for diversity and complexity rather than fixed definitions. Relativism focuses on understanding knowledge and beliefs in the context of their cultural frameworks, further challenging the notion of fixed characteristics by arguing that perceptions of identity can vary greatly across different societies. Thus, essentialism stands out as the framework that aligns with the idea of fixed characteristics in defining people.