... against and hence the main target of the various hostile manifestations of his prejudiced attitude. The purpose of this essay is to describe the commonly accepted social psychological explanations for this implacable social phenomenon, to present the reasons that have been put forth by social psychologists over the years as to how and why prejudice exists. In view of this, a brief definition of the term 'prejudice' will first be provided, to dispel any doubts in the readers mind about the same. Following that, the concept of social categorization, the main driving force behind the conception and intensification of a prejudiced attitude, will be discussed. Subsequent to that, a few other concepts that have been put forth as social psychological explanations for prejudice will also be briefly described. Before moving on, it is necessary to provide an articulate description of the terms prejudice, stereotype and discrimination, since they will be used ...

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