Question

Write a brief note on the following:

Prejudice and social tension

Answer 1

Prejudice is a negative and unjustified attitude toward individuals or groups based on characteristics like caste, religion, race, or gender. It is learned through social influences such as family, media, and peer groups, and often leads to stereotyping and discrimination.

Social tension refers to conflict, mistrust, or hostility between different groups in society. The textbook states that prejudice is a major cause of social tension. When people hold strong prejudices, they tend to isolate or discriminate against others, which creates divisions and disrupts social harmony.

Prejudiced attitudes increase social distance, which further fuels tension. As a result, society may experience quarrels, jealousy, cold wars, and even violence, making it difficult to achieve peace and cooperation.