Discrimination arising from stereotypes.

Discrimination arising from stereotypes definitely exists in Singapore. Many types of stereotype discrimination exist in Singapore- be it the “kiasu auntie” at the market or the “mugger nerd” in school, however, I think Singaporeans generally do not display their distaste for such stereotypes in a negative manner.

Because Singapore is a racially diverse country, I think that Singaporeans are used to the different types of stereotypes created by the general public. However, I am sure that many of us do discriminate some of these stereotypes. After all, who would like to be stuck in a lift with the 'kaypoh' neighbor next door? Discrimination in Singapore may arise from the fact that many of us live around these stereotypes, and are hence sick or irritated by the day in day out interactions with the stereotype.

Take for example the stereotype of the nosey neighbor in her mid 40s who has nothing better to do but gossip. If you were a young, overworked adult in her mid 20s, you would obviously like to start your morning with a quiet, peaceful trip down the elevator rather than having to entertain the neighbor with the latest gossips, or insights of the stock market which may grant her a windfall. However, this discrimination may be unfair as not all neighbors in their mid 40s are of the same gossip queen category. We just assume that all people who fall into that age category are the same. However, are we forgetting that many senior managers who are intuitive and smart, and, possibly normal and not gossip queens are also in their mid 40s? Thus I think that Singaporeans jump to stereotyping, hence discrimination too quickly.

However, discrimination in Singapore is not very openly showcased, though we may harbor such opinions internally. We do not see public slamming of old men as molesters or children as screamy monsters. There may be the common stereotyping of Chinese workers are rude and loudmouthed, but hardly anything is done to show our displeasure. Singaporeans are generally quite tolerable of these stereotypes, and discrimination isn't much of a source of riot in Singapore.

Therefore, although discrimination arising from stereotypes exists in Singapore, it isn't that big of a deal.