Prejudice

Definition

Prejudice refers to preconceived opinions or judgments about a person or group of people based on stereotypes, biases, or beliefs that are not necessarily grounded in fact. It often involves making assumptions about individuals without sufficient knowledge or evidence, leading to unfair treatment or discrimination.

Example

A new student from another country joins a class. Some students assume the new student will struggle with English simply because of their accent. This assumption is an example of prejudice because it is based on stereotypes about non-native speakers rather than actual knowledge of the student's abilities.

Why It Matters

Prejudice matters because it can lead to discrimination and harm to individuals or groups who are unfairly judged. It creates barriers in communication, fosters misunderstandings, and undermines equality. Prejudice can make social interactions more challenging for everyone involved, as it fosters an environment of mistrust and tension rather than mutual respect and understanding.