It is hardly possible to define prejudice in a unique and a comprehensive way that would reflect the whole complexity of the issue. Crandall & Eshleman (2003) in their article “A Justification–Suppression Model of the Expression and Experience of Prejudice” describe prejudice as a negative assessment of an individual or a social group that is based on belonging to certain groups and communities. The authors do not characterize this evaluation as rational or irrational as it is not possible to find an objective measure of rationality. Moreover, Crandall & Eshleman also acknowledge the existence of a “positive prejudice”, however, this concept is outside of the scope of the article due to its limited relevance for the processes of justification and suppression. This definition of prejudice is in line with my own perception of the concept. However, from the personal point of view, the meaning of prejudice is rarely based on a rational assessment and is merely heuristic that may often lead to the distorted perception of reality, therefore it can lead to conflicts between different groups.
The “two-factor” theory of racial prejudice suggests that any prejudice is formed as a result of the two opposing forces: the genuine prejudice and the need to suppress it. While the first force is based on the historical and cultural background of prejudice and is rarely a product of an objective assessment of the target. The second force, on the other hand, is influenced by the existing societal norms, and relates to commonly accepted behavior and values.
The idea of inherent prejudice towards “Blacks” has a certain degree of truth, as the perception of White Americans has been shaped over centuries of interracial disparity and the belief of racial superiority. It has the same routes as any other prejudice and is controlled by the same suppression mechanisms. However, strong interracial conflicts in the American society, which were common in the past and, unfortunately, can be still witnessed today, created a stronger intolerance against interracial prejudices. Therefore, people have to put more effort in suppressing their “genuine prejudice” against “Blacks” than against any other group or society. This process can hardly be an alarming sign of chauvinism against a particular race, but merely a reflection of the history, beliefs and norms of the contemporary American society.
References
Crandall, C. S., & Eshleman, A. (2003). A justification-suppression model of the expression and
experience of prejudice. Psychological Bulletin, 129, 414-446.
