How to Avoid Prejudice

The Dictionary website defines prejudice as "an unfavorable opinion or feeling formed beforehand or without knowledge, thought, or reason." Although prejudice is mostly directed at a racial or religious group, it can also be directed at individuals for whatever reason. One has to be careful with prejudice because it is mostly based on unreasonable grounds and can be very hurtful to the person or group it is directed against. Here are some simple ways to avoid prejudice.

Instructions

1. Ask yourself how much you know about the person or group that you are prejudiced against. Where did you get your information?

2. Try to understand your own inclinations. Why do you feel and act the way you do? Understanding yourself will go a long way in helping you avoid prejudice.

3. Find out as much as you can about a person or group before you form an opinion. Often, pre-conceived ideas are formed from inaccurate assumptions.

4. Give others the benefit of the doubt. If you heard something about an individual or group, get your facts from the person or members of the group directly rather than relying on information from another source. Many times information is distorted as it is transferred from one party to another. It also depends largely on who you are talking to.

5. Have an objective attitude. Be open-minded and do not be quick to pass judgment.

6. Try to get to know the person or the group. You may be surprised to find a new friend.

7. Remember that it's the differences that make life interesting. Learn to be accepting and tolerant of other's differences.

8. Treat others with respect; it not only reaps the same, but it also reflects a person's character.

9. Avoid trying to change someone. Learn to have a different perspective and you may just make a difference in the way you treat others.