prejudice
Definition
Prejudice is a preconceived opinion or judgment about an individual or group without sufficient knowledge, usually based on stereotypes. It often involves negative attitudes or feelings towards others because of their race, ethnicity, gender, or other social characteristics.
Analogy
Think of prejudice as a filter on a camera lens that distorts the true color and clarity of a photograph before you even take the picture. Just as this filter prevents you from seeing the real image, prejudice clouds judgment and prevents individuals from seeing the true qualities of people based on unfounded opinions.
Related terms
Stereotypes: Oversimplified generalizations about groups of people that ignore individual differences.
Discrimination: The unfair treatment of individuals or groups based on prejudice, often manifesting in exclusion or denial of rights.
Racism: A belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race, leading to prejudice and discrimination
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