What is the definition of discrimination in social context?

Discrimination in a social context is best defined as unfair treatment of individuals based on their membership in a particular social group. This can manifest in various forms, including but not limited to race, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or socioeconomic status. The key aspect of discrimination is that it involves taking actions that disadvantage people because they belong to a certain group, rather than evaluating them based on their individual merits or actions.

This understanding of discrimination highlights the social and systemic inequalities that can arise within a society. It emphasizes the negative impact such treatment can have not just on individuals but also on the social fabric as a whole. It is important to distinguish this idea from personal preferences or biases, as discriminatory actions are institutionalized or systemic rather than simply the result of individual choices.