What can attitudes reveal about prejudices?

Abstract

The chapter takes a conceptual approach to prejudices in that it reviews and applies the relevant research and literature on the subject and related issues. That is why it first examines the interrelationship of ethnocentrism, stereotypes, and prejudices in order to show how and why prejudices arise. It becomes clear from this discussion that the social environment can have an important and early impact on a person’s predisposition. Another aspect to consider is identity because a person’s self-image and self-esteem can determine whether a person is more susceptible to prejudices or not. Next, the paper examines attitutes and persusion to explain how prejudices can be overcome. Here as well, it becomes clear why some individuals are swayed by messages designed to overcome prejudices and others are not. Taking these factors into consideration, the paper ends with a brief description of what measures need to be undertaken in oder to overcome prejudices.