de facto segregation
Definition
De facto segregation is the separation of groups, especially in terms of race or ethnicity, that occurs without legal requirements but because of social, economic, or other factors. It contrasts with de jure segregation, which is enforced by law.
Analogy
Imagine a cafeteria where no rule dictates where everyone sits, yet all the chess club members sit at one table and the football players at another. This natural clustering based on shared interests or backgrounds mirrors de facto segregation in society, where groups separate not because of laws but due to personal choices or societal pressures.
Related terms
Prejudice: An unfounded negative attitude towards an individual or group based on their perceived characteristics.
Discrimination: The unjust treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, age, or sex.
Racism: A belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human racial groups determine cultural or individual achievement, often involving the idea that one's own race is superior and has the right to dominate others
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