The Social Construction of Difference

The social construction of difference refers to how societies create and define categories like race, gender, or class, shaping what is seen as "normal" or "different." These categories are not based purely on biological facts but are built through social norms, cultural beliefs, and historical contexts. As a result, people's perceptions about differences can influence opportunities, treatment, and social interactions. Recognizing this helps us understand that these distinctions are, to a large extent, shaped by society rather than inherent traits, encouraging more awareness and efforts toward equality and inclusion.