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Gordon W. Allport Books

1 book·~10 min total read

Gordon Willard Allport (1897–1967) was an American psychologist known for his pioneering work in personality theory and social psychology. He taught at Harvard University and authored influential texts on personality traits, motivation, and prejudice, helping to establish psychology as a discipline concerned with individuality and social ethics.

Known for: The Nature of Prejudice

Books by Gordon W. Allport

The Nature of Prejudice

The Nature of Prejudice

sociology·10 min read

Originally published in 1954, this landmark work by social psychologist Gordon W. Allport explores the roots and mechanisms of prejudice in human behavior. Drawing on empirical research and psychological theory, Allport analyzes how stereotypes, social categorization, and intergroup relations shape discrimination and bias. The book remains foundational in social psychology and continues to influence studies of race, ethnicity, and social identity.

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1

Definition and Scope of Prejudice

At the outset, I define prejudice as an antipathy based upon faulty and inflexible generalization. By this, I mean that prejudice is not rational criticism or reasoned dislike; it is an emotional reaction that persists regardless of evidence. Its strength lies in rigidity—once stereotypes are formed...

From The Nature of Prejudice

2

Historical and Social Context

Prejudice is not new. It has haunted every era of human history, shaping empires and revolutions. What history teaches is that prejudice changes its form but not its essence. Whether expressed through caste hierarchies in ancient India, religious persecution in medieval Europe, or racial segregation...

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About Gordon W. Allport

Gordon Willard Allport (1897–1967) was an American psychologist known for his pioneering work in personality theory and social psychology. He taught at Harvard University and authored influential texts on personality traits, motivation, and prejudice, helping to establish psychology as a discipline ...

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Gordon Willard Allport (1897–1967) was an American psychologist known for his pioneering work in personality theory and social psychology. He taught at Harvard University and authored influential texts on personality traits, motivation, and prejudice, helping to establish psychology as a discipline concerned with individuality and social ethics.

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Gordon Willard Allport (1897–1967) was an American psychologist known for his pioneering work in personality theory and social psychology. He taught at Harvard University and authored influential texts on personality traits, motivation, and prejudice, helping to establish psychology as a discipline concerned with individuality and social ethics.

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