Which of the following best defines prejudice?

Prejudice is best defined as a negative attitude based on group membership. This concept focuses on the tendency to form unfounded and negative evaluations of individuals solely because they belong to a particular social group, such as race, ethnicity, religion, or gender. Prejudice involves stereotyping, discrimination, or bias that can manifest in various forms, including social, economic, or political.

This definition captures the essence of prejudice, which is an irrational and often harmful attribution that goes beyond individual characteristics, attributing negative traits or behaviors to entire groups instead. Understanding prejudice is crucial in psychology and social practice, as it highlights the need for awareness and interventions to combat discrimination and promote equality.