Cognitive Simplicity and Out-Group Stereotyping

Abstract

The hypothesis that cognitive simplicity is positively related to out-group stereotyping was tested with data on college students. Cognitive complexity-simplicity was estimated by the accuracy with which suibjects perceived the attitudes of others and by the similarity of own attitudes to those attributed to others. Simple anld refined measures of stereotyping were used. Significance of relationships wZas determined by the chi square and coefficient of contingeincy tests. Both estimates of cognitive simplicity were found to be directly related to the two measures of stereotyping. The association was weak, but statistically significant in three of the four tests. esearclh on race relations provides sociologists with excellent opportunities to combine practical and theoretical work. This paper reports on the theoretical aspects of one in a series of studies into the nature of prejudice, stereotyping, and their correlates.' A study of student attitudes toward the desegregation of tlaeir own campus was tlhe vehicle. Findings of fact were used by the university's administrators in planning and justifying a program of desegregation. In addition, the study attempted to explore the relation of cognitive simplicity to out-group stereotyping. COGNITIVE PROCESSES IN PREJUDICE AND