What does "prejudice" refer to in the context of bias?

In the context of bias, "prejudice" refers to unjustified negative attitudes that individuals hold toward certain groups or individuals based on characteristics such as race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or other identities. These attitudes are often formed without direct experience or factual evidence and are instead influenced by societal norms, stereotypes, and cultural narratives.

When someone exhibits prejudice, it means they have preconceived notions that negatively impact their perception or treatment of others, even in situations where those biases may not be warranted or accurate. This psychological component is significant, as it can lead to discrimination and hinder social cohesion.

While stereotypical assumptions, harmful actions, and legal discrimination can all relate to the concept of prejudice, they describe different aspects of how prejudice manifests or its implications. Stereotypical assumptions might arise from prejudicial attitudes but don’t necessarily capture the essence of unjustified negativity. Harmful actions could stem from these attitudes but are not representations of the attitudes themselves. Legal discrimination refers to institutionalized practices that may be influenced by prejudice but again is a separate category. Therefore, the focus on unjustified negative attitudes accurately encapsulates the core meaning of prejudice within the context of bias.