What does ethnicity often encompass?

Ethnicity is primarily understood as a social construct that encompasses a shared cultural heritage among a group of people. This includes cultural practices such as language, religion, traditions, customs, and values, as well as shared perspectives that shape the group's identity. Ethnicity ties individuals to a larger community based on common cultural elements rather than biological characteristics or socioeconomic factors.

While physical attributes may sometimes correlate with ethnicity, they are not the defining aspects; it is the cultural practices and shared heritage that truly define an ethnic group. Socioeconomic status and political affiliations can vary widely within ethnic groups, making them less relevant to the core understanding of ethnicity itself. Thus, the correct choice highlights that ethnicity is rooted in cultural dimensions, which form the basis of how groups perceive themselves and are perceived by others.