What distinguishes prejudice from discrimination?

The distinction between prejudice and discrimination is fundamental in sociology, as it helps in understanding how attitudes and behaviors shape social interactions. Prejudice refers to preconceived judgments or attitudes—often negative—toward individuals based on their membership in a particular group, such as race, gender, or socioeconomic status. It is an emotional response that reflects biases and stereotypes.

Discrimination, on the other hand, manifests when these prejudiced beliefs result in unfair treatment of individuals or groups. It involves actions that treat people differently based on group characteristics, resulting in unequal opportunities or inequitable outcomes in various life situations, like employment, education, or housing.

Thus, recognizing that prejudice encompasses attitudes and beliefs while discrimination encompasses actions provides clarity on their relationship. Prejudice can exist without overt discrimination; however, when those prejudiced attitudes translate into discriminatory actions, they can perpetuate systemic inequalities. This difference highlights the two distinct but interrelated concepts in understanding social dynamics and inequality.