Why do People say it's wrong to Generalize about Races, but then we Generalize with everything else??

Question

When someone makes a generalized comment about a particular race, people always respond with "don't generalize" etc. But isn't that hypocritical, not to mention impossible to ask someone not to generalize?

I mean, every decision we make is based on weighing the pros and cons on past experiences or observations. Those are all based on generalizations.

For example, if I choose not to eat at a certain restaurant I've visited in the past because the food was disgusting, am I generalizing? The food could be excellent today, however, based on my past experiences I decide not to go there anymore. This is how the human mind works.

When scientists test a new drug and find it works on 80% of patients, are they supposed to throw the drug away because it's considered generalizing to think this drug will work for someone ill just because 20% of people will not be cured by it?

Why are people such hypocrites?

Answer 1

People are not "statistics". People are people. No matter what race. It is WE who have generalized THEM. Not the fact that they are generalized per say. The analogy about the drug does not pertain to us humans who have the power to overcome "generalization".

Answer 2

It happens often, its just because racism is more taboo then the other generalizations. Because not going to your favorite restraunt will not cause a war or murder.

I think a degree of generalization is required, as long as you understand and expect that your sample of the subject does not represent that as a whole. I mean its true that some things are shared by a vast majority of certain races, like for example us aussie guys like to drink beer, its no secret.

These people who are stuck thinking what society has told them to think and may never question why they have been taught to think that way, may never discover this, even if you blatently threw it in their face they would refuse to belive or cross you off as a racist.

Deal with the close minded the way they expect you to react or whatever i guess.

Answer 3

I think you're generalizing when you said "..., people always respond with "don't generalize" "... I never said that so I think you're being overly exagerated in that aspect.

I think it is more important to be fully aware when you are generalizing and not so much worried about generalizing -- it becomes more important when you make bad decisions because you're not aware that the bad decision was made because you generalized to make the decision and you were not aware that that is how you came to your decision.

Bottom line, no one wants to suffer because of something someone else did, because there is little equity in such a situation... that's why it is probably said IMHO.

Answer 4

You make a racist comment to someone then, or something you said taken out of context?

Either way take people as you find them, not true what you said, just because one italian restaurant was not up to standard does that mean you will never eat Italian again??? Take everyone as your equal no matter race, colour or looks or you may never have any mates lol

Answer 5

Generalizing about races is so much different than doing it with everything else. That is serious than any thing you can do to another human being. No doubt about that.

Answer 6

It's the old smarten up,think like I do syndrome kicking in. You will encounteer this all your life.