Concept of Prejudice

Estimated time: 11 minutes

CISCE: Class 12

Definition: Prejudice

A prejudice may be defined as a composite of stereotypes, myths, and legends in which the group label or symbol is used to classify, characterise, or define an individual or a group considered as a totality.
Baron and Byrne (1988) have defined prejudice as a specific type of attitude where individual traits and behaviour play little role.
According to Fieldman (1985), prejudice is a positive or negative evaluation or judgement of members of a particular group which are based primarily on the fact of their membership in the group and not necessarily because of particular characteristics of individual members.
Allport defines prejudice as a negative attitude towards human beings that is held because of their membership or of their suppressed membership of certain groups.
According to Kretch and Crutchfield, prejudice refers to some attitude or belief that serves to place the objects of the attitudes and beliefs at an advantage or disadvantage.
According to Sherif and Sherif (1969), ‘Group prejudice refers to unfavourable attitudes held by the members derived from their group's norms that regulate treatment of the outgroup.

CISCE: Class 12

Meaning of Prejudice: Prejudice means prejudgment or forming an opinion in advance without proper knowledge; it is a biased attitude toward a group.
Group-Based Judgement: People are liked or disliked mainly because of their group membership, not because of individual qualities.
Based on Stereotypes: Prejudice develops from stereotypes, myths, traditions, and oversimplified experiences.
Can Be Positive or Negative: Though usually negative, prejudice can also be positive (favouring one’s own group – ingroup bias).
Ingroup vs Outgroup: Prejudice is generally shown by the ingroup toward the outgroup, seeing the ingroup as superior.
Unscientific and Biased: Prejudice lacks a rational or scientific basis and is often influenced by family and social norms.
Functions/Effects: Prejudice creates social distance, conflict, tension, and blocks social progress and harmony.