Hate crimes

Definition

Hate crimes are criminal acts motivated by bias or prejudice towards particular groups of people based on characteristics such as race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity. These crimes can range from vandalism and threats to physical assault and murder.

Related terms

Prejudice:

A preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience, often directed against individuals or groups.

Discrimination:

The unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, age, or sex.

Social Control:

Mechanisms, strategies, and institutions that societies use to maintain normative order and conformity amongst its members