The author hypothesizes that dominant racial ideology influences athletic performance among black men in many societies because it encourages those men to

• A. Create a sense of complacency
• B. Encourage non-athletic careers
• C. Feel a sense of destiny to become great athletes in certain sports.
• D. Reduce competition

Answer: (C)

When a dominant racial ideology ties Black men’s racial identity to athletic greatness, it shapes what many people come to believe they are “meant” to do. That messaging can plant a sense of destiny to become great athletes in certain sports, so individuals internalize that athletic path as a natural or fated role. This belief helps orient their goals, training, and choices in ways that align with that expected identity—driving sustained effort, specialization in particular disciplines, and perseverance to pursue opportunities in sports. The idea isn’t just about liking sports; it’s about feeling that success in athletics is an anticipated outcome for them, which can boost motivation and persistence.

This perspective fits better than ideas of complacency, which would imply doing less or settling, or choosing non-athletic careers because the ideology pushes toward a different path. It also doesn’t align with reducing competition; the hope or belief in destined athletic excellence often intensifies the drive to prove those expectations through performance.