What term describes actions taken to deny individuals fair treatment based on prejudice?

The term that describes actions taken to deny individuals fair treatment based on prejudice is discrimination. Discrimination refers to the behavior or practice of treating individuals unfairly or differently based on certain characteristics such as race, gender, age, religion, or other factors. This behavior is often rooted in prejudices—preconceived opinions not based on reason or actual experience.

By engaging in discriminatory actions, individuals or institutions actively prevent certain groups from receiving equal opportunities, rights, or resources. This can manifest in various contexts, including employment, education, housing, and social services. Understanding discrimination is crucial for recognizing and combating injustices in society, as it highlights the systemic nature of inequality and the importance of promoting equity and inclusion.

In contrast, intolerance relates more to a lack of acceptance for differing beliefs or practices, prejudice refers to the unfavorable opinions or feelings about a person or group, and segregation pertains to the physical separation of groups within society. While these concepts can be interconnected, discrimination specifically focuses on the actions taken against individuals or groups based on those prejudicial beliefs.