What does Prejudice Mean

What does Prejudice Mean?

The term Prejudice varies in its respective definition with regard to a variety of spectrums in which the word is used. Primarily, the term prejudice can be defined as the discrimination against another group or individual with regard to an individual trait or characteristic believed to be out of the control of the individual who displays it. Examples of social Prejudice can be any of the following:

Racial Discrimination

Sexual Orientation Discrimination

Age Discrimination

Gender Discrimination

Religious Discrimination

Although the rights expressed within the United States Constitution allow for every American citizen to enjoy the right to freedom of speech, expressed prejudice with regard to the happiness, opportunity, and well-being of another individual is both illegal and unlawful. This can include biased hiring practices and admission policies.

With Prejudice vs. Without Prejudice

In a legal forum, the term Prejudice retains additional connotation extending from social bias. With regard to a court decision, verdicts mandated by a presiding court can vary in their respective ‘Prejudice’:

With Prejudice: In the case of a verdict mandated by a court of law, and subsequently acknowledged by the presiding judge, a verdict with Prejudice entails that the sentencing is final and cannot be appealed; a verdict with Prejudice can only be granted upon review of all pertinent case details.

Without Prejudice: In the case of a verdict issued ‘without Prejudice’, the presiding judge does not disallow an individual’s right or opportunity to appeal the verdict through another trial or a motion to an applicable appellate court.

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