Bigotry: Real Versus Imagined

It is very easy for politically confused, dominating or disruptive individuals, groups or government entities to sow dissension by exploiting the very subjective ways that "bigotry" can be regarded by various people. The fact that people may be members both of groups which have oppressed others and ones that are oppressed makes things even more confusing and subjective. That is why all of us must be aware of the various categories of real and imagined bigotry. Awareness can make one sensibly wary of those who are quick to make harsh accusations. Let us all be willing to discuss the issues of bigotry, domination and oppression openly, honestly and without hostility.

REAL BIGOTRY

The following are categories of real bigotry, though whether specific words or acts fall into them can be highly subjective and open to debate.

HARD BIGOTRY: Hatred or dislike of, or contempt for, members of any group because of sexual, racial, ethnic, religious, or other characteristics; can be held by members of both oppressor and oppressed groups, including towards members of their own group; can be anger or revenge for past or current wrongs, real or perceived; or can be ideological; not easily ameliorated.

IGNORANT BIGOTRY: Can be similar to hard bigotry, or a product of insensitivity, poor education, unfamiliarity with members of other groups, or immature attempts at "humor"; but individuals are capable of changing attitudes with education and association with members of the disliked groups.

SOFT OR COVERT BIGOTRY: Not aware of, willing to admit, caring about or willing to speak out against the oppression suffered by members of any group, including out of fear of retribution from oppressor groups.

IMAGINED BIGOTRY

The following are categories of imagined - or even falsely charged - bigotry, though whether specific words or acts fall into them can be highly subjective and open to debate. These categories can overlap.