Question

1. Create a hypothetical story of how a violent conflict arose between two groups. In your story, include examples of how in-group bias, out-group homogeneity, out-group derogation, and scapegoat theory lead toward violence between groups. Be sure to label each term where it occurs in your story (20 points)​

Answer 1

In a small town called Harmonyville, violent conflict arose between the Bluebirds and the Sunflowers. The conflict was fueled by in-group bias, out-group homogeneity, out-group derogation, and scapegoat theory. The Bluebirds viewed themselves as superior and discriminated against the Sunflowers, whom they blamed for their frustrations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Once upon a time in a small town called Harmonyville, there were two main groups: the Bluebirds and the Sunflowers. The Bluebirds had been a long-standing group in the town and prided themselves on their rich history and traditions. The Sunflowers were a newer group, made up of people who had recently moved to the town.

As the years went by, tension began to build between the two groups. The Bluebirds felt a strong sense of in-group bias, valuing their own traditions and looking down on the Sunflowers. They saw themselves as unique and superior, while viewing the Sunflowers as outsiders.

Out-group homogeneity further worsened the situation. The Bluebirds believed that all Sunflowers were the same: they had the same ideas, same values, and were generally different from the Bluebirds. This led to out-group derogation, with the Bluebirds actively belittling and discriminating against the Sunflowers.

Finally, scapegoat theory played a role in escalating the conflict. The Bluebirds faced frustration due to changes happening within their town. Instead of seeking solutions internally, they blamed the Sunflowers for these issues, making them the scapegoat.

Labeling:

• In-group bias: The Bluebirds felt superior and valued their traditions.
• Out-group homogeneity: The Bluebirds saw all Sunflowers as the same.
• Out-group derogation: The Bluebirds actively discriminated against the Sunflowers.
• Scapegoat theory: The Bluebirds blamed the Sunflowers for their frustrations.

Answer 2

Once upon a time, in a small village nestled in the hills, there were two groups of people: the Red tribe and the Blue tribe. The Red tribe was known for their exceptional hunting skills and their ability to cultivate crops in harsh environments. The Blue tribe, on the other hand, was renowned for their pottery and weaving skills. Despite their differences, the two tribes had coexisted peacefully for generations.

One year, however, a severe drought hit the area, causing crops to fail and game to become scarce. As resources became scarce, tensions between the two tribes began to rise. The Red tribe blamed the Blue tribe for using too much water to make their pottery, while the Blue tribe accused the Red tribe of overhunting and depleting the local wildlife.

As tensions continued to escalate, members of each group began to view themselves as part of an in-group that was superior to the out-group. This in-group bias led them to believe that their own tribe was right and justified in their actions, while the other group was wrong and deserving of blame.

Out-group homogeneity also played a role in the conflict. Members of each group began to see all members of the other group as being similar to one another, assuming that they all shared the same negative traits or behaviors. For example, members of the Red tribe started believing that all members of the Blue tribe were wasteful with water and didn't care about conserving resources.

Out-group derogation further fueled tensions between the two groups. Members of each group began to use derogatory language when referring to members of the other group. For example, members of the Red tribe started calling members of the Blue tribe "water wasters," while members of the Blue tribe referred to members of the Red tribe as "game killers."

Finally, scapegoat theory played a significant role in escalating tensions between these two groups. As resources continued to become scarcer, members of each group began to look for someone to blame for their problems. They started blaming each other for the drought and the resulting scarcity of resources, rather than recognizing that it was a natural disaster beyond their control.

As tensions continued to escalate, members of both groups began to resort to violence. The Red tribe raided the Blue tribe's pottery workshop, destroying their kilns and smashing their pottery. In retaliation, the Blue tribe attacked the Red tribe's hunting camp, stealing their weapons and burning their crops.

The conflict between the two tribes continued for several months, with each group blaming the other for their problems. Eventually, a group of elders from both tribes came together to try and find a peaceful resolution. Through mediation and compromise, they were able to reach an agreement that allowed both groups to share resources and live in peace once again.