The most violent element in society is ignorance. Emma Goldman

The terms “stereotype” and “prejudice” conjure up preconceived definitions in our minds.  As we process experiences, people are efficiently categorized based on common stereotypes they seem to fit.  Prejudice may then follow, made acceptable by cultural norms regardless of any real attempt to evaluate an individual or the situation presented.  As society moves forward in accepting diversity among people, the affects of this method of reasoning gain clarity.   Outward prejudice loses favor increasingly with each generation.  Tangible change can be neatly plotted along the timeline of American history, leading to a general agreement on equality and acceptance of diversity being upheld as an institutional standard. 

In this age of diversity training and equal opportunity laws, why does the point made by Denley’s article still shock and confuse the reader?  It is because the tools we use to make sense of the issue lack accurate definition.  In pursuit of a common goal, we may refrain from prejudice thinking or behaviors; however this restraint is based solely on the understanding of prejudice.  Without the realization that prejudice reaches beyond discrimination to include all biased views, be they favorable or unfavorable, our good intentions fall short.  In such a scenario, favorable bias is undetected, reinforcing privilege for select categories of people.  This simple misconception prevents a true understanding of the problem and creates an obstacle in the path toward a solution.  If we are ever to reach our goal, and a time when Denley’s article relates only to our past, it is vital that we connect with the full meaning of the problem we are dealing with.

We have come a long way, but we have definitely not yet arrived.  (Word Count 346)