Stereotypes

Anyone who knows me well understands that I hate stereotypes. However, sometimes stereotypes can actually be accurate. It feels weird even saying that, but it's true. Sometimes when we look at things in a broad sense there are some factors that are more prevalent.

But, I also think there's value in researching how a stereotype comes into play. What if we feel influenced to act a certain way based on ideas that other people have? I mean, what came first the chicken or the egg?

I see two main issues with stereotypes: they cause unnatural actions, and they strip away the concept of individuality. But, if neither of these aspects are true about a certain statement, then how can it be wrong to make that claim?

There's a difference between labeling and stereotypes that should be noted. Identifying yourself as one thing is different than making a general assumption about a topic that is more broad. I won't say how I feel about either of those and whether they're good or bad. That can be your decision. But, it's also important to look at why certain stereotypes exist. What's the economics behind it? Maybe stereotypes themselves aren't bad, but our assumption that they're always wrong or always right.