Significance of Discrimination
Across various contexts, discrimination encompasses diverse meanings. In Jainism, it relates to judgment influenced by love. In Tibetan Buddhism, it's the ability to discern qualities in potential partners. Vaishnavism sees it as the absence of bias. Purana and Vedanta view it as distinguishing the real from the unreal. Yoga emphasizes discernment for spiritual growth. Dharmashastra focuses on ascertaining true knowledge. Mahayana considers it a source of suffering. Theravada contrasts it with universal love. In the context of Indian history, it can involve unjust treatment. In science, it often refers to unfair treatment based on characteristics, such as HIV status. Psychiatry views it as unfair treatment based on a person's condition.
Synonyms: Prejudice, Inequality, Unfair treatment, Favoritism, Intolerance, Bigotry, Exclusion, Inequity, Unfairness
In French: Discrimination; In Dutch: Discriminatie; In Finnish: Syrjintä; In Spanish: Discriminación; In German: Diskriminierung; In Swedish: Diskriminering; In Malay: Diskriminasi; In Italian: Discriminazione; In Polish: Dyskryminacja; In Portugese: Discriminação
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Discrimination'
In Buddhism, discrimination encompasses making distinctions, judgments, and categorizations. It's seen as a source of confusion, suffering, and an obstacle to enlightenment. It involves mental processes, perceptions, and can lead to attachments and misunderstandings of reality.
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) Discrimination, being a logical term, is associated with the intellect and must be discarded to realize Cittamatra, as the intellect is seen as a barrier to spiritual attainment.[1] (2) The act of making distinctions based on perception, often seen as a source of suffering in Buddhist teachings.[2] (3) The cognitive process of distinguishing between concepts, often associated with ignorance or attachment to dualistic views.[3] (4) The mental process of categorizing and labeling experiences, often leading to attachment and misunderstanding in the context of Buddhist thought.[4] (5) The mental act of categorizing and distinguishing between perceived phenomena, which leads to misconceptions about reality.[5]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Cognitive distinctions or judgments made by the mind.[6] (2) Judgments or classifications made by the mind that can give rise to attachments and confusion.[7] (3) The distinctions made by consciousness between different sensory experiences, categorized as attractive or unattractive, pleasing or displeasing.[8]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The ability to perceive differences, which is acknowledged even in various subtle forms.[9]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The ability to differentiate between true and false views, particularly in understanding self and non-self.[10]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The act of making distinctions that can lead to confusion and suffering; considered an obstacle on the path to enlightenment.[11]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) Discrimination and constructual thought are considered impropriety for one who has renounced the world for the discipline of the rightly taught Dharma, according to the text.[12]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The practice of making unfair distinctions, which is counter to the principle of Metta that embraces all equally.[13]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A concept related to the type of decision the Elder requested from Sariputta, possibly indicating a specific philosophical context.[14]
Hindu concept of 'Discrimination'
In Hinduism, discrimination is multifaceted. It involves distinguishing between the real and unreal, true self and temporary states, and knowledge and ignorance. This discernment is crucial for spiritual growth, understanding reality, achieving liberation, and realizing the ultimate truth, often through meditation and critical thinking.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The ability to discern truth in the Vedantic method, which facilitates the realization of Brahman as the ultimate reality.[15] (2) The ability to differentiate between knowledge and ignorance that leads to the realization of the self's identity with the Supreme Reality.[16] (3) The ability to discern truth from falsehood, allowing a person to see beyond superficial appearances, akin to a man not seeing dirt in the sky.[17] (4) The capacity for critical thinking and understanding necessary for is reaching profound insights into spiritual truths.[18] (5) The ability to discern between reality and illusion, enabling wise individuals to understand the true nature of existence beyond perceived dualities.[19]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The ability to distinguish between what is real and unreal, eternal and temporal, is known as discrimination, and it is essential for spiritual progress.[20] (2) Discrimination, in the context provided, refers to the process of discerning and distinguishing between the Self and the non-Self, requiring careful consideration and judgment.[21] (3) Discrimination is a process, as mentioned, that is essential for distinguishing between the Self and the non-Self, leading to the attainment of realisation.[22] (4) This is used to understand that dwelling on external objects intensifies negative inclinations, and subsequently to avoid them and meditate on the Atman.[23] (5) It is between the Real and the unreal, enumerated as the first item.[24]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) This provides the guiding principle in the process of merging one sheath in another, stating that the effect does not exist as something different from its cause.[25] (2) Discrimination involves distinguishing the Self from the body, senses, and mind through inquiry.[26] (3) The process of discerning the Self from the not-Self, leading to the realization of being no other than Brahman.[27] (4) The process through which the aspirant distinguishes between the true self (Brahman) and the false layers of existence (sheaths).[28] (5) The ability to discern and make judgements, a quality more developed in humans than in animals.[29]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The ability to distinguish between separate identities or origins, which is absent when beings attain unity.[30] (2) The ability to discern and critically evaluate the nature of experiences, as exhibited by Indra's contemplation of Prajapati's teachings.[31] (3) The ability to separate the real from the unreal, permanent from impermanent.[32]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The ability to distinguish between different identities or characteristics, which is not present in honey.[33] (2) The ability to differentiate between the true nature of the Self and the incorrect notions associated with the physical body and senses.[34]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The act of discrimination is absent in the non-existent realm because there is nothing to differentiate, indicating that it is a function of the created world where distinctions are made.[35] (2) Through this process, the real, the true, and the eternal are understood, suggesting an ability to differentiate and discern the nature of things, leading to knowledge.[36]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The mental process of discerning the real from the unreal, which is the primary duty of a Sannyasin in their pursuit of knowledge.[37]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The ability to discern the real nature of existence as opposed to its illusory aspects.[38]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The ability to discern the true nature of the self and the distinction between the temporary and the eternal.[39]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The capacity to distinguish between actions that should be performed and actions that should be avoided, indicating a discerning intellect capable of making sound judgments.[40]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) The mental process of distinguishing and discerning during meditation, which can be disrupted by external thoughts.[41] (2) The process of distinguishing differences among entities, typically based on kind, character, and habitat.[42]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The discrimination of distinctive natures is considered a manifestation of the quality of Essentiality, and losing desire even for this discrimination is crucial in the path to absolute independence.[43] (2) The process of distinguishing the objective essence from the Purusha, facilitating the non-painful modifications.[44]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) Discrimination is exercised through non-attachment and helps us gain control of painful or impure thought-waves by questioning our desires and their potential impact on our freedom and knowledge.[45] (2) The ability to discern and differentiate among thoughts and qualities, considered crucial for spiritual growth and understanding.[46]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) It refers to the act of distinguishing or differentiating between entities, which prevents individuals from attaining auspiciousness.[47] (2) The perception of inferiority or superiority that leads to envy in this world, absent among those devoted to a supreme being.[48] (3) The absence of bias as both men and women participated equally in the sankirtana movement.[49] (4) The social division and judgment among the residents of Navadvipa based on cultural differences.[50]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The act of distinguishing or differentiating between the real and unreal, often associated with spiritual understanding.[51] (2) The ability to recognize and differentiate between various qualities, in this context referring to spiritual discernment.[52]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The ability to distinguish between the real (ultimate reality) and the unreal (impermanent world).[53]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) The ability to discern truth from illusion and liberate the mind from suffering; it is depicted as the force that checks the uncontrolled mind.[54]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Men who make any discrimination regarding the sacred or non-sacred character of a sanctuary acquire pilgrimage merit.[55]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) It springs in the mind through the disparagement of the world, due to its faults or other causes.[56]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The ability to differentiate and ascertain true knowledge, particularly by refuting doubtful or opposing views.[57]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) It is a power associated with intellect.[58]
Jain concept of 'Discrimination'
In Jainism, discrimination signifies the ability to judge and make decisions. The text suggests that an astrologer's assessment of this capacity was questioned, particularly when love might cloud clear judgment and influence choices.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The quality of judgment and decision-making, which the astrologer questioned in light of love's influence.[59]
The concept of Discrimination in local and regional sources
Discrimination manifests in varied forms, from social injustices and caste-based inequalities, as opposed by the Bhakti movement, to the unfair treatment in education, and the unjust treatment leading to social and economic disparities. It is also the act of distinguishing between things.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This is a power gained through wisdom that assists in molding a right attitude towards life and is essential for navigating life's complexities.[60] (2) The power to distinguish between good and bad, described as a noble quality, helps in making human beings supreme.[61] (3) The unfair treatment of students based on the medium of instruction, particularly against those without English proficiency.[62] (4) Unjust treatment of different categories of people, often leading to social and economic disparities.[63] (5) Unequal treatment that British ship owners claim they would experience as a result of the Coastal Reservation Bill.[64]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Discrimination between the real and the unreal is the real goal of practice, knowing that the Purusha is not nature, that it is neither matter nor mind, and that because it is not nature, it cannot possibly change.[65] (2) This is the process that can help to realize the goal or Brahman, and is a means along with meditation, to reach the goal, and is one of the paths to the realization of Brahman.[66] (3) Discrimination between the real and the unreal is necessary when thoughts of wealth and fame arise, and it should be practiced even in dreams, as the sword of discrimination is kept at the head of the bed.[67] (4) According to Ramanuja, this involves discerning between various things, including pure and impure food, and it is a crucial aspect of the path towards spiritual attainment, as described in the context.[68] (5) According to Ramanuja, this is the act of distinguishing between different things, including pure and impure food, which is a critical aspect.[69]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The social injustices that the Bhakti movement opposed, advocating equality among individuals regardless of caste.[70]
The concept of Discrimination in scientific sources
Discrimination, as described in the text, encompasses unfair treatment based on various characteristics like HIV status, sexual orientation, or disability. It manifests in healthcare, education, and social settings, leading to unequal opportunities, prejudice, and human rights violations. The text emphasizes the negative impacts of discrimination on individuals and groups.
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) This is the unfair treatment experienced in employment, housing, and social settings, stemming from ethnicity, origin, or perceived differences, hindering integration and well-being.[71] (2) Discrimination is the unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, age, or sex, and race, ethnicity, and discrimination at work have been analyzed.[72] (3) The act of treating individuals or groups unfairly based on their membership in a particular group, leading to negative physical and mental health outcomes.[73] (4) Discrimination occurs when labelling leads to stereotyping, separation, emotional reactions, status loss, and discrimination, which is facilitated by a power differential between those labelled and those who label.[74] (5) Unfair treatment or judgments faced by individuals with dyslexia during recruitment and employment, despite legal protections designed to prevent such actions.[75]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) Is often a result of prejudice and can be exacerbated by negative intergroup contact, potentially stemming from intercultural relations and political conflicts.[76] (2) Discrimination can arise in autonomous vehicles due to biases in algorithms, leading to the prioritization of safety for certain groups over others and resulting in unequal risk allocation among road users.[77] (3) Discrimination causes inequalities and negatively influences work satisfaction; inclusion can be a real solution to the problems of discrimination in the workplace.[78] (4) It refers to the extent to which a construct is distinct from other constructs, and the questionnaire has good validity.[79] (5) The text indicates that discrimination was inversely associated with neighborhood income and homeownership, suggesting a complex relationship between these factors and the occurrence of discrimination.[80]
From: South African Journal of HIV Medicine
(1) Discrimination refers to unjust or prejudicial treatment of individuals or groups based on certain characteristics, such as sexual orientation, leading to increased vulnerability to HIV.[81] (2) Discrimination is the enactment of stigma, involving the unjust treatment of individuals or groups based on certain characteristics, such as drug use, leading to human rights violations.[82] (3) Unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people or things.[83] (4) This refers to the unfair treatment of individuals or groups based on their characteristics or circumstances, often leading to unequal access to opportunities.[84] (5) This is the unfair treatment experienced by key populations in healthcare settings, and the training programs aim to reduce this by increasing healthcare workers' understanding and empathy.[85]
From: African Journal of Primary Health Care and Family Medicine
(1) "Discrimination" against PLWH has been noted and reported, which can lead to social isolation and reduced access to healthcare services, negatively impacting their overall quality of life.[86] (2) This is a factor discussed in a study regarding the salience of race in South Africa.[87] (3) This term describes the unfair treatment or prejudice against individuals or groups, as demonstrated in the text concerning how medically circumcised men are treated compared to others.[88] (4) This refers to the unjust or prejudicial treatment of a person based on their identity, and half of the participants reported experiencing this, or humiliation.[89] (5) This is the term used to describe the act of being treated unfairly because of one's HIV status, and the text suggests that there is a fear of it.[90]
From: South African Family Practice
(1) Discrimination assesses whether a study is scientifically valid enough to be considered reliable, influencing how its findings might be integrated into a practitioner's approach.[91] (2) This describes unfair treatment of students with visual impairments based on their disability, leading to exclusion, lack of opportunities, and human rights violations.[92] (3) This refers to the unfair treatment of people based on their membership in a certain group, like those with HIV.[93] (4) This is a concern that lies in the study design, specifically the small sample size and sampling method used in the research, impacting the study's overall validity.[94] (5) This is the unfair treatment of individuals based on their characteristics, such as sexual orientation, and the study highlighted instances of discrimination experienced by men who have sex with men within healthcare facilities.[95]
From: Journal of Public Health in Africa
(1) It is a perceived issue that travel restrictions and other measures point to, leading to exclusion as well as other unintended consequences.[96] (2) This refers to the unfair or unjust treatment of individuals based on their real or perceived HIV status, and the study aimed to identify factors associated with such treatment.[97] (3) This involves unfair treatment or prejudice against persons suspected of having COVID-19, which can be a factor in efforts to avoid the spread of the disease.[98] (4) The text defines this as an arbitrary distinction, exclusion, or restriction affecting people due to their confirmed or suspected HIV-positive status, leading to negative consequences.[99]
From: South African Journal of Physiotherapy
(1) This is highlighted in the text in the context of salary scales and equal pay.[100] (2) Sexual harassment is considered a form of discrimination, both internationally, according to CEDAW, and nationally, in South Africa.[101]
From: International Journal of Pharmacology
(1) It is the unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people or things, especially on the grounds of race, age, or sex; leprosy can cause it.[102]
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Discrimination, as a principle in the context of war, addresses who are legitimate targets, providing an ethical consideration for military actions and decisions.[103] (2) The text defines discrimination as prejudice, negative attitudes, and abuse directed at people diagnosed with HIV and AIDS, presenting a barrier to treatment and care.[104] (3) Unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people or things, especially on the grounds of race, age, or sex.[105] (4) It is the unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, age, sex, or religion.[106] (5) Discrimination is defined as behaviors that create unequal treatment based on presumed individual or group characteristics, resulting in disadvantages and negative outcomes of the targeted individual or group.[107]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) According to the text, the "discrimination" principle distinguishes between legitimate targets (soldiers, warships, military buildings) and protected entities (children, ambulances, hospitals), as described in Just War Theory.[108]
From: South African Journal of Psychiatry
(1) This is unfair treatment based on a person's characteristics, and participants' behavior exaggerated their teachers' and peers' frustration, resulting in this experience.[109] (2) This refers to the unfair treatment of individuals based on their condition, which is a key component of stigma.[110] (3) Discrimination is a prevalent issue faced by the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender population, particularly within the healthcare system, which is often expressed through prejudice and can impede access to necessary care.[111]
Classical concept of 'Discrimination'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) Children love their parents only after time has elapsed and they have acquired understanding or the power of this by the senses.[112] (2) The act of **discrimination** between the just and the unjust is the foundation of legal justice and the establishment of laws to govern human interactions.[113]