The article explores how psychological essentialism contributes to fear, prejudice, and discriminatory attitudes toward immigrants. Essentialism is the belief that categories such as race and ethnicity are fixed and unchangeable. This mindset leads individuals to adopt stereotypes and exhibit prejudice, particularly towards perceived outsiders like immigrants. People holding these beliefs often prefer cognitive closure and tend to avoid complexity in thinking, which further entrenches their prejudices. The article also highlights that challenging essentialist views can reduce prejudiced attitudes by promoting recognition of individual complexity.
People with essentialist beliefs often adhere to stereotypes, leading to increased prejudice and discrimination against immigrants, reinforcing social hierarchies and discriminatory practices.
Research shows that by challenging essentialist views, individuals can become less prejudiced, as it allows them to see others as complex individuals rather than simplistic categorizations.
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