What term refers to a feeling of hostility or aversion toward a group or individual not based on reason or actual experience?

The term that refers to a feeling of hostility or aversion toward a group or individual that is not based on reason or actual experience is prejudice. Prejudice involves forming an opinion or judgment about someone or something, usually in a negative way, without having all the facts or experiences to support that viewpoint. It often stems from stereotypes or societal conditioning rather than personal experience.

In the context of this question, prejudice specifically relates to attitudes and beliefs that can lead to unfair treatment of individuals based on characteristics such as race, religion, or gender, even when there is no valid basis for these feelings. This understanding emphasizes the impact of preconceived notions and the importance of addressing these biases in a constructive manner.

Discrimination, while related, involves actions taken based on prejudice, such as unfair treatment. Polarization refers to the division of people into opposing groups and heightened conflict, and segregation involves the physical and social separation of groups. These terms pertain to broader societal issues, but none specifically define the subjective feelings that characterize prejudice.