Blacklists
Definition
Blacklists are lists of people viewed as troublemakers or undesirable by businesses or governments. If you're on one, it can be very difficult for you to find employment in your field.
Analogy
Imagine being blocked on social media platforms because you posted content that violated their guidelines. Being blacklisted is similar; once you're on it, companies avoid hiring you just like how your posts won't show up anymore after being blocked.
Related terms
McCarthyism: Named after Senator Joseph McCarthy, this term refers to making accusations of subversion or treason without proper evidence. It was prevalent during the Cold War era where many were blacklisted due to alleged communist ties.
Red Scare: This term refers to the fear of communism that pervaded America in two distinct periods - post World War I and during the Cold War. During these times, many individuals were unfairly targeted and blacklisted due to suspected communist sympathies.
Discrimination: This is the unjust or prejudiced treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, age, or sex. Blacklisting can be a form of discrimination if it's based on these factors.
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