Examples of the Different Hate Crimes - Essay Example

Prejudices are not inborn but rather they are a result of the prejudices that children are exposed to through their families, friends, teachers, and the media. These prejudices and biases lead to various stereotypes of different groups. Even parenting style and personality factors were found to affect the offenders of hate crimes. Creating a stereotypical image of a certain group often leads to bad judgments.
Hate crimes can be prevented if even at an early age, children are taught that not all people are alike and that each one is a unique person. As such, individuals must learn to respect and accept the diversity of people in communities. Bias and prejudices may not be eradicated but they should be kept at a level that does not develop into hate so as not to lead to violent crimes. Tolerance of other people’s differences must be instilled in children at an early age.
The government has led the way in preventing hate crimes by making policies and regulations which prevent racial discrimination and promote equality, especially in the workplace. Government should provide economic opportunities to minority groups since it is believed that there is a link between economics and hate crimes. Local community leaders must be more aware of the presence of extremist groups who are tremendously prejudiced against certain groups.
Reading the chapter makes one think about whether hate crimes can be prevented or at the very least, minimized. Another question is whether there is a way of detecting a person who will most likely commit a hate crime and if detected, can he be swayed into doing otherwise? Is there a way of controlling or limiting one’s prejudices and biases so as not to move one from committing a hate crime? Read More