"A great deal of what is called "prejudice" should actually be called "postjudice" -- common sense tempered with experience."
Great term. Dinesh D'Souza calls it "rational discrimination." One of his examples is if a group of toughs are walking toward one, exuding their "I-Don't-Give-A-Bleep-About-The-World" look, it is completely rational to avoid the situation by crossing the street. The theory is that, one cannot instantly be sure that these "toughs" are just projecting an image to placate a "rep" or to hide certain insecurities, not malicious intent. Some people have better instincts than others but in general don't have the time or the info to make an informed decision about the "toughs" real intent, background, etc. before one passes them.
People that want to project an image should not be surprised when people make on-the-fly judgements based on their clothes, banter, gestures. Don't want to be judged as a gangbanger, don't dress like one.
His book 'End to Racism' is excellent. My example of a place where there's true 'ethnic diversity' but real unity is the US military. They didn't need Jane Elliot's help either.
You are right, too. I couldn't put it better myself.
I disagree from a "streetwise"perspective that it is a rational move to cross the street when you see a group of tough looking dudes approaching.Doing that sends the message that you are scared of them and a potential"vic".
I just keep walking at a steady pace,head held high,maybe a nod or a "whats up" when I pass them.The worst reaction I have gotten is some laughter or a few joking words.
You can't be viewed as a "punk"when in the hood or in a poor white area for that matter. There,as in the world as a whole,Only toughness gets respect.
Riverman