What does 'discrimination' entail?

Discrimination specifically refers to the unfair treatment of individuals based on characteristics such as race, age, gender, disability, or other attributes. This concept is rooted in biased attitudes and actions that result in unequal access to opportunities, resources, or services. Such treatment is typically not justified or based on merit but rather on stereotypes or prejudices against specific groups.

Understanding discrimination as unfair treatment highlights the impact it has on people's lives and the importance of addressing these inequalities in various settings, including workplaces, educational institutions, and social interactions. In contrast, equitable treatment, positive reinforcement, or personal preferences do not capture the essence of discrimination. Rather, they suggest approaches aimed at fairness or support for individuals based on their merits or choices, which falls outside the realm of discriminatory practices.