What is prejudice?

Prejudice refers to preconceived thoughts and attitudes about an individual or group that are not grounded in direct experiences or evidence. This characteristic involves biases that are often negative and can lead to stereotypes, discrimination, and unjust treatment of people based on attributes like race, gender, religion, or other characteristics.

Choosing this answer aligns with the understanding that prejudice typically arises from generalized beliefs rather than personal interactions or firsthand knowledge, highlighting how societal norms and cultural influences can shape unfounded opinions. Prejudice can affect interpersonal relationships and societal structures, making it a critical topic in psychology and social science fields. The distinction revolves around the nature of these beliefs, which stem from assumptions and societal narratives instead of objective evaluations or fair assessments of differences.