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  What is a stereotype, and how is it harmful?A stereotype is an idea about members of a group of people that gets applied to all members of that group, regardless of whether or not it really is based in fact, or pertains to each individual of that group. Because stereotypes are generalized representations of groups of people, they are most often harmful. Stereotypes perpetuate often incorrect or unfounded ideas about members of a group, such as an ethnic group. These ideas are most often negative, but stereotypes can at times be negative or positive. However, even positive stereotypes about groups of people (e.g. “girls are better students than boys”) end up limiting how people think about and interact with others. Most often, stereotypes simplify, distort, discriminate, or demonstrate a lack of understanding of others. Unfortunately, stereotypes are often used to justify discrimination and oppression. Continuation of stereotyping can be discouraged through education and careful exploration of how and why stereotypes are created, and how they affect different people in various ways. Continue to What’s the difference between anthropology, archaeology, and paleontology? >> back >> |
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