I'm going to talk about stereotypes and why they make life a heck of a lot easier. First of all, let me straighten out what exactly a stereotype is. A stereotype is a generalization we place on a certain race, or religion, or ethnic background. They do NOT apply to all members of that particular race or religion. However, they do apply to most of them. That's why it's called a generalization. There are obviously exceptions to the rules. Like an Irish guy who doesn't drink, a Jewish guy who's terrible with money, a Black guy that sucks at sports, or an Asian who can drive. Those are the exceptions and are few and far between.
Not all stereotypes are bad either so don't worry. I'll touch base on the good and bad ones and how they affect our every day life.
For instance, when you walk into an H&R Block or another establishment to get your taxes done, and you see the Asian guy working with someone. In your head you're hoping that they get finished with their customer so you can be next. Am I right? Yes, I know I am. Nobody wants their taxes done by the white guy who's tie is a little too short, or the black lady with the giant rings on her fingers. You want the Asian guy because, odds are, he's a better accountant. That's not a bad thing. On the other hand, when you get into a cab and see the driver is Asian. In your head you're thinking, "Shit, I may or may not make it." Why? Because the majority of Asians are terrible drivers. Good with numbers, terrible with vehicles.
Give this scenario a once over. You're playing pick-up basketball at a gym you are unfamiliar with. "Let's shoot for captains." the guy running the show yells out. You hang back because you don't know anyone and don't want to get stuck having to pick teams. Well, everyone else misses and you have to step up. The ego takes over and you drain the shot. Now you have to pick your team. Who are you looking for to be your first pick? No no no, you're looking for a black guy. Why? Because, odds are, he's better at basketball. It's no big deal. It just so happens that a majority of black guys are pretty athletic and good at sports. So if you end up being captain I would suggest getting one on your team. That doesn't necessarily mean he'll be the better player, but the odds are in your favor. On the flip side, you're walking down the street late at night and you see a black guy walking toward you. Secretly you're thinking, "Shit, I may or may not make it." This guy could be a doctor or lawyer, but in your head he's a thug who is going to rob you. It's just the way the world works.
I'll give you one more scenario to think about. This stereotype is a very interesting one depending on how you look at it. You friend tells you they have someone they want you to meet. A buddy of theirs or a friend from school. Whatever the case may be. You meet this person and after talking for a while you find out that person is Irish. In your head you're thinking, "this guy must drink and beat his wife." Or "man, I bet this guy can hold his shit together at the bar." Just because he's Irish you automatically assume they drink, and drink heavily. I'm in no position to dispute this but I'm sure there are Irish people out there not drinking.
The point is, you have already made up your mind when you heard Irish. The same way you make up your mind about Jewish people and money. The same way you make up your mind about white people and dancing. It's just a way to speed things up a bit. Odds are you're right! And in the event that the person in question is the exception to rule, who cares? Everyone knows about stereotypes and uses them. If you show me a person who says they don't use stereotypes, I'll show you a god damned liar! I understand I left a lot of stereotypes out. I didn't want this to be a 23 page blog. I also understand that I made them all males. It's just easier that way. So please relax ladies. I didn't do it because I'm sexist, I did it because females have a whole other set of stereotypes. The concept is still the same though.
I used a stereotype the other day when I filled up my gas tank. And you know what? I was right and it sped up visit. A Hand-job for a Ham Sandwich later I was in my car with a full tank and empty balls. Why? Because the odds were in my favor!
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