How is an ethnic group defined?

An ethnic group is defined as a segment of the population that shares common characteristics and cultural heritage. This encompasses aspects such as shared history, traditions, beliefs, and sometimes even language. Ethnic groups often have a sense of identity and belonging that is rooted in their shared cultural practices and values, which distinguishes them from other groups.

In contrast, while language can be an important factor in cultural identity, it is not the sole criterion for defining an ethnic group, as indicated by the first option. The third option focuses on geographical location, which may contribute to group identity but does not encompass the broader cultural and heritage aspects that define ethnicity. Lastly, political affiliations can be a component of social identity, but they do not encapsulate the essence of ethnicity, which is fundamentally linked to culture and heritage rather than politics. Thus, the most comprehensive and accurate definition is indeed that of a segment of the population with shared characteristics and cultural heritage.