Final answer:
Stereotypes like sexism survive mainly due to social categorization tendencies and confirmation bias, where people seek out information that confirms their beliefs and ignore contradicting evidence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stereotypes, such as sexism, survive due to social categorization tendencies, not because of reduced cognitive biases, increased individualization, or enhanced cultural diversity. One of the main reasons stereotypes persist is because of a cognitive process known as confirmation bias. When individuals encounter information that supports their pre-existing beliefs or stereotypes, they tend to give more weight to that evidence, while disregarding or minimizing evidence that contradicts their beliefs. This can be seen in instances where people believe a certain gender is more emotional or less capable in specific jobs, and when they witness behavior that aligns with this stereotype, their belief is reinforced despite contrary evidence.
Confirmation bias is a significant factor in the maintenance and reinforcement of stereotypes as individuals seek out or remember information that confirms their existing views. Additionally, humans have a natural inclination to form in-groups and out-groups, favoring those they see as part of their group (in-group bias), which can lead to prejudice and discrimination towards the out-group. Legal and societal changes can help to reduce biases and discrimination over time, as seen with the passage of same-sex marriage reforms leading to a decrease in discrimination against sexual minorities.