Kernal Of Truth

The "kernel of truth" hypothesis asserts that there is a basic truth behind any stereotype. Unfortunately, as humans we automatically categorize other groups of humans that are "different" from us, whether it is language, ethnicity, skin color, religion, lifestyle, etc. These categories usually have a "stereotype" that goes with it and often these stereotypes are frequently negative, and often misleading or dated. For instance, one very dated stereotype is of an Italian organ grinder with a monkey entertaining for contributions. The "kernel of truth" in this stereotype is that in the late 19th and early 20th century there were a few Italian immigrants that played music on street corners in an attempt to support their families. Because this was a very visual reference for others, it became a stereotype that was (and still is) associated with Italians.