Everyone is born equal

Everyone has to deal with stereotypes, whether it relates to your religion, race or any other aspect of life. Stereotypes can brainwash us, changing our perceptions.

Perceptions can be misconceptions, such as Muslims being terrorists, or Americans being obese. But what affects people's perspectives?

Generally, past events influence the way we see things and people. The 9/11 attacks gave Muslims a bad reputation.

The media exaggerates situations to get people's attention. Stereotypes are enhanced and people fail to develop empathy for those stereotyped. Racism and stereotyping go hand in hand. We should never judge people by the colour of their skin.

I think we should take action against stereotypes. We should treat each other with sincerity and warmth. Then the world will be a better place.

Yinnie Wong, Sha Tin College, Young Post Cub Reporter

From the Editor

Thank you for your letter, Yinnie. You're quite right when you say people should all be treated fairly. Many are not, for whatever reason.

It's been shown that many prejudices are learned behaviour but some are inherited. For instance, we might feel 'wary' of people who look different. But these are very primitive responses that have no place in a modern world.

We are the ones who have to stop it.

Susan, Editor