An ethnic stereotype is a generalized representation of an ethnic group, composed of what are thought to be typical characteristics of members of the group. The use of ethnic stereotypes is usually demeaning even when the characteristics might be considered positive because it tends to discount the importance and uniqueness of the individual.

False ethnic stereotypes can gain acceptance as fact through frequent repetition. The use of stereotypes often leads to misunderstanding and hurt feelings, because they may be either untrue generalizations, truthful but unflattering generalizations, or truthful generalizations about a group which are untrue of any given member of a group. Many modern ethnic stereotypes can be described as accurate representations of social norms within a given ethnicity and may reflect what a large portion of the living population is, in fact, doing. Black American males are stereotypically portrayed as playing basketball because many black American males do play basketball. Within each ethnicity there is always a minority, or even a majority, that chooses not to reflect the stereotype. But even individuals who do reflect the stereotype may find it negative and offensive. Sara Giauro shoots a three-point shot, FIBA Europe Cup for Women Finals 2005 For other uses, see Basketball (disambiguation). ...

A 19th century children's book informs its readers that the Dutch are a very industrious race, and that Chinese children are very obedient to their parents.

There are many other examples, lists of which can be found at the following articles: Ethnic stereotypes appear in what appears to be an early nineteenth century childrens book, A Peep at the World. ... Ethnic stereotypes appear in what appears to be an early nineteenth century childrens book, A Peep at the World. ... Alternative meaning: Nineteenth Century (periodical) (18th century — 19th century — 20th century — more centuries) As a means of recording the passage of time, the 19th century was that century which lasted from 1801-1900 in the sense of the Gregorian calendar. ... // Basic characteristics There is some debate as to what constitutes childrens literature. ...

• List of common phrases based on stereotypes
• List of ethnic slurs
• Stereotype

This is a list of common American and British Commonwealth words and phrases based on racial, ethnic, religious, regional or other stereotypes. ... The factual accuracy of this article is disputed. ... To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article or section may require cleanup. ...

See also

• Racism
• Ethnic stereotypes in American media
• Ethnic stereotypes in popular culture
• Ethnic stereotypes in pornography
• Racism in Mass Media