one opinion, not an English major, just someone who wants to understand other’s language choices
Racism and bigotry overlap quite a bit. As used today I see the differences as
bigotry – tends to be individual, but can be any kind of prejudice against just about anyone. Bigotry is less specific (can include traits other than race) and smaller in scope (individual and groups, rather than society as a whole).
racism – Is bigotry based on race, so can describe individuals, but can also refer to the bigger picture prejudice against minorities in a culture. When you start talking about systemic issues those generally go beyond what people describe as bigotry.
Bigotry is something an individual holds onto. Racism is the bias of a culture.