Stereotypes and social cognition

Are stereotypes intrinsically erroneous? Do they have pragmatic value? What constitutes an adequate social judgement? These and other questions are answered in this ambitious and interesting book. While advancing a novel perspective, Stereotypes and Social Cognition also provides a coherent and much needed overview of the key arguments and empirical developments in research on stereotypes.

Starting with a definition of stereotypes, the authors cover a wide range of diverse literatures and theoretical perspectives to present a comprehensive critique of the subject. The text spans a review of the classical work on psychodynamic and authoritarian theories through to contemporary sociocultural research. Moreover, the authors offer a close analysis of key theoretical approaches including social identity theory, social cognition and self-categorization theory.

At the same time relevant cross-cultural issues are explored. This clearly-written and engaging book will be essential reading for students and academics in social psychology and for anyone with an interest in the phenomenon of social stereotyping.