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Writer's pictureNicole

Why Are People Racist?: The Psychology Behind Racism


Racism is still so prominent in our society today. Have you ever wondered why in this day and age there is still so much racism. In this article I unpack the psychology behind racism!


Theories Of Racism


A theory from Charles Darwin has a notion that one of the reasons people are racist is because of the "Survival Of The Fittest". This notion is that there are certain advantages to survival when being racist like, having a certain tribe of people that look similar to stay with.


How Prejudice Has a Major Impact On The Way We See The World


Prejudice is "a preconceived judgment, opinion or attitude directed toward certain people based on their membership in a particular group." People that grew up with parents or other family members in a household that were consistently racist towards others might have seen completely normal to them because they always grew up like that. Since they were exposed to racism from a young age, subconsciously they can think it is "okay or the right way to see life."


What Actually Causes Racism


There has not been one specific cause for racism but here is what a lot of psychologist speculate cause racism.

  • Personal Insecurity

  • Lack Of Empathy

  • Bad Mental Health

  • Bad Media Representation

  • Having A Higher Position Of Power

  • Survival Of The Fittest

  • Failing To Recognize Your Own Racism

  • Being Quick To Judge




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