ABSTRACT
In this chapter I propose to consider certain fundamental problems relating to the causes of prejudice. In particular, I shall examine the almost universal assumption that prejudice is based on an individual’s historical experiences, i.e., is due to environmental factors. As we shall see, this is not so; genetic factors are at least as important as environmental ones. I shall also look at some theories concerning the hypothesized environmental causes of prejudice, in particular the famous frustration/aggression hypothesis, and seek to show to what extent that hypothesis is applicable, and to what extent it can be used to reduce prejudice.
