Final answer:
Application refers to applying known information to new contexts, while generalization is creating broad principles based on specific instances. Care should be taken to avoid turning generalizations into stereotypes, which can be harmful and ignore individual differences.
Step-by-step explanation:
Examples of application and generalization are part of everyday reasoning and problem-solving. Application refers to using known information or principles in new and different contexts. For instance, understanding that gravitational pull exists everywhere on Earth allows someone to predict that an object will fall when dropped regardless of the location. In this way, scientific principles can be applied to a variety of situations outside the classroom.
Generalization involves creating a broad principle based on specific instances. For example, through observation, one might notice that all the swans they've seen are white and thus generalize that all swans are white. However, this can lead to incorrect conclusions, as not all generalizations hold true in every instance, such as the existence of black swans.
It's also important not to confuse generalizations with stereotypes, which can be harmful and overlook individual differences. Stereotypes are overly simplified and widely accepted beliefs or generalizations about a particular group of people, and they do not account for variability within groups. Accepting a stereotype, like "All men like football," without critical examination can lead to misinformation and prejudice.