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Human Natures: Psychological Essentialism in Thinking about Differences between People
Article first published online: 23 APR 2008
DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-9004.2008.00112.x
© 2008 The Authors. Journal Compilation © 2008 Blackwell Publishing Ltd
Additional Information
How to Cite
Haslam, N. and Whelan, J. (2008), Human Natures: Psychological Essentialism in Thinking about Differences between People. Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 2: 1297–1312. doi: 10.1111/j.1751-9004.2008.00112.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 23 APR 2008
- Article first published online: 23 APR 2008
- Social and Personality Psychology Compass 2/3 (2008): 1297–1312, 10.1111/j.1751-9004.2008.00112.x
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Abstract
‘Psychological essentialism’ is the belief that members of a category share deep-seated properties that determine their identity. In the case of social categories, such beliefs have a variety of important implications. We review recent research that shows a central role for essentialist thinking in stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination. Special attention is paid to beliefs about race and ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, mental disorder, and personality. Lingering questions about essentialist thinking are discussed, and several directions for future research are suggested.