Question

Which of the following statements are true about stereotypes?
(A) Stereotypes are often applied to ethnic and racial groups.
(B) Stereotypes fix whole groups into a single entity.
(C) Stereotypes refuse to recognize the variation across individuals.
(D) Stereotypes are partly colonial constructs.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only
• B. (A), (B) and (C) only
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D)
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To determine which statements about stereotypes are true, let's analyze each one: 

(A) Stereotypes are often applied to ethnic and racial groups.
This statement is true. Stereotypes frequently target ethnic and racial groups, simplifying complex individual identities into broad, generalized categories.

(B) Stereotypes fix whole groups into a single entity.
This statement is true. Stereotypes tend to reduce diverse groups of individuals into a singular, homogeneous concept, ignoring the nuances and individual differences within the group.

(C) Stereotypes refuse to recognize the variation across individuals.
This statement is true. By definition, stereotypes overlook individual variations, applying the same set of characteristics or traits to everyone within a group indiscriminately.

(D) Stereotypes are partly colonial constructs.
This statement is true. Many stereotypes originated during colonial periods, where colonial powers categorized and labeled different cultural groups in simplistic and often derogatory terms to justify their dominance and control.

Considering the explanations above, all four statements (A), (B), (C), and (D) are true. Therefore, the correct answer is: (A), (B), (C) and (D)

Answer 2

The correct answer is Option 3: (A), (B), (C), and (D). Here is the detailed explanation for each statement:

Statement A: True. Stereotypes are often applied to ethnic and racial groups. They are oversimplified and generalized beliefs about the characteristics of members of a particular group, which can lead to discrimination and prejudice.

Statement B: True. Stereotypes fix whole groups into a single entity by attributing the same characteristics to all members of the group, regardless of individual differences. This can result in a lack of recognition of the diversity within the group.

Statement C: True. Stereotypes refuse to recognize the variation across individuals within a group. They assume that all members of a group are the same, which can lead to unfair treatment and a lack of understanding of individual differences.

Statement D: True. Stereotypes are partly colonial constructs. Many stereotypes about racial and ethnic groups were developed during the colonial era and were used to justify the subjugation and exploitation of colonized peoples. These stereotypes have persisted and continue to influence perceptions and attitudes today.

Since all four statements are true, the correct answer is Option 3: (A), (B), (C), and (D)