social dominance theory
Social dominance theory posits that societies are structured in hierarchies, with some groups holding more power and privilege than others. It suggests that people favor their own group and often discriminate against those in lower-status groups. This tendency reinforces inequality and can manifest in various forms, such as racism, sexism, and classism. The theory highlights how social systems encourage the dominance of certain groups, shaping attitudes and behaviors that help maintain these social hierarchies. Understanding this helps explain persistent social inequalities and the dynamics of power in human interactions.
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Social Dominance Theory (SDT) is a social psychology framework that explains how societies are structured in hierarchies, where certain groups maintain dominance over others. It posits that social inequality is a key feature of human societies, often based on characteristics like race, gender, or class. SDT suggests that people are motivated to preserve and enhance these hierarchies through attitudes, behaviors, and discrimination. This theory has implications for understanding issues such as prejudice, power dynamics, and the persistence of inequality across cultures. It emphasizes the role of group-based power relations in shaping social interactions and institutions.