Discrimination The topic of discrimination can be a very sensitive one to discuss. The world has always, and probably will always be faced with this problem. In all countries there is most likely at least one type of blatant discrimination that affects different groups of people. There are several different definitions for discrimination. The definition given in class is: the denial of opportunity, and/or equal rights towards a certain group of people. I believe that this definition is 100% correct. I think that discrimination is the denial of opportunity or equal rights toward a specific group of people. I also believe that discrimination is not just towards blacks, or any other minority groups specifically. I will also expand later in the paper that I believe discrimination can be toward any group of people: black/white, majority/minority, or man/woman. There are many causes for discrimination. Among those discussed in class is the size of the group. This simply states that discrimination may be a direst result of the fear of one group being so large that it "takes over the rest of the groups." According to this theory, people discriminate in order to keep their group of people in command. Another theory is that discrimination is a result of competition. It means that all groups are in continuous competition with each other, and that one group's success directly causes another group's failure. A power threat is another theoretical reason of unfair treatment. This states that discriminatory actions may be taken on a minority group due to its perception of power. The fourth idea discussed is that of status consciousness. For example, you are walking down the street. In your path you spot a group of Hispanic teenagers dressed in baggy clothes and bandanas. Your first thought might be to move across the street because of this group of people. This is a perfect example of the status conscious theory.
