What does prejudice refer to?

Prejudice refers to a preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience. It typically involves a biased judgment or attitude towards an individual or group, often negative, and can lead to discrimination or harm. The significance of this choice lies in its emphasis on the impact of such judgments—injury or damage can arise as a result of prejudiced perspectives, affecting social interactions and relations between groups.

While other options discuss concepts related to beliefs, practices, and opinions, they do not capture the essence of what prejudice embodies. Prejudice is fundamentally about the detrimental effects of biased judgments on individuals or groups, making the first choice the most accurate definition within the context of understanding prejudice.