Discrimination

Definition

Discrimination refers to the unjust or prejudicial treatment of individuals based on characteristics such as race, gender, ethnicity, or religion. This behavior can manifest in various forms, including social exclusion, economic disparity, and systemic inequality, often intensified during periods of rising nationalism, where certain groups may be favored over others.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rising nationalism in the 21st century has often correlated with increased discrimination against minority groups, as national identity is sometimes defined in exclusionary terms.
2. Discrimination can manifest in various sectors, including employment, education, and law enforcement, often perpetuated by stereotypes associated with nationalistic ideologies.
3. The backlash against globalization has led to a resurgence of populist movements that frequently use discriminatory rhetoric to rally support and solidify a sense of national unity.
4. Legislation aimed at combating discrimination has been challenged in many nations as nationalist movements seek to prioritize certain cultural or ethnic identities over equality.
5. Social media plays a significant role in both perpetuating discrimination and enabling resistance movements, allowing marginalized voices to challenge discriminatory practices fueled by nationalism.

Review Questions

• How does rising nationalism impact the prevalence of discrimination within a society?
  • Rising nationalism can lead to an increase in discrimination as it often promotes a singular national identity that may exclude minority groups. Nationalistic ideologies may define citizenship and belonging narrowly, resulting in prejudice against those who are perceived as 'outsiders.' This environment creates fertile ground for discriminatory attitudes and behaviors to flourish, particularly against those who do not conform to the dominant cultural narrative.
• Analyze the relationship between xenophobia and discrimination during periods of heightened nationalism.
  • Xenophobia is closely linked to discrimination during times of heightened nationalism because it fosters an 'us vs. them' mentality. Nationalist movements often exploit fears surrounding immigration and cultural differences, painting outsiders as threats to national unity. This can lead to discriminatory policies and social attitudes that marginalize those viewed as foreign or different, further entrenching societal divides.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of systemic discrimination on national cohesion and identity in the context of 21st-century nationalism.
  • Systemic discrimination can have profound long-term effects on national cohesion and identity by creating divisions within society. When certain groups are consistently marginalized, their ability to participate fully in the nation-state diminishes, leading to social unrest and a fragmented national identity. Furthermore, ongoing discrimination can provoke resistance movements that challenge the dominant narrative, potentially resulting in greater social polarization and conflict. In this way, rather than fostering unity, systemic discrimination can undermine the very fabric of national cohesion.

Related terms

Prejudice: An unfavorable opinion or judgment formed beforehand without knowledge, thought, or reason, often leading to discriminatory actions against individuals or groups.

Xenophobia: An irrational fear or dislike of people from other countries or cultures, which can fuel nationalist sentiments and result in discriminatory practices.

Social Inequality: The unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society that can lead to systemic discrimination against marginalized groups.