Cataloging the World

Imagine being judged solely on appearances. This is already happening in our society today. How? Think about it.

The definition of appearance according to dictionary.com is the state, condition, manner, or style in which a person or object appears; outward look or aspect.

Dig a little deeper. Our appearance includes how we look, who we surround ourselves with, what we choose to do with our time...everything. Our appearance is how we are portrayed to anyone who does not know us. This is because without knowing a person, our appearance is the only indicator of who we are to said person.

Everyone is subject to this discrimination, or stereotyping as we know it. Don't believe me? Here is a major stereotype that is plaguing our society today: Middle Easterners are terrorists. This doesn't pertain to you? Here are more: blondes are stupid, women are bad drivers, and Asians have a high IQ naturally. Still just playful banter? Maybe these will hit home: cheerleaders are airheaded, jocks are arrogant, people who sit near the library are different, and people in the library are nerds.

Stereotyping is an essential part of our society, yet detrimental at the same time. People are judgemental. It is in our nature, and whether we choose to or not, it happens.

What do these preconceived notions do? They are often dismissed and regarded as nothing more than artificial derision. But they do more than that.

Stereotypes categorize people. Sometimes this could be positive or negative though right? Wrong. What about the stereotype that Asians naturally have a high IQ. This could be taken as a positive stereotype...but what about someone of Asian ethnicity that has difficulty with anything academic. That person is now subject to ridicule because they do not fit their "stereotype."

Stereotyping has no positives. It is not helpful. It is often very hurtful and holds our society from moving forward.

The definition of discrimination according to dictionary.com is treatment or consideration of, or making a distinction in favor of or against, a person or thing based on the group, class, or category to which that person or thing belongs rather than on individual merit.

By this definition, stereotyping is a form of discrimination that we all partake in everyday...whether we are fully conscious of it or not. Just think about where your thoughts may stray when you see someone for the first time, or what you may say about one person to your friends. Realize that this is discrmination, and that people should be judged on their individual merit...nothing less.