Allport held that no single variable fully explains any prejudice.

Evidence

In chapter 17, titled “Conforming,” Allport (1954/1979) targeted conformity as a primary cause of prejudiced behaviors and belief, stating, “about half of all prejudiced attitudes are based only on the need to conform” (p. 286). By the 1950s, psychologists had long known that people adapt their behavior to the social norms of the situation; Allport applied this principle to prejudice. Relying both on anecdote and empirical research, Allport cogently argued that conformity was one of the most important causes of prejudice. — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1888 (#complicates, via linked claim)

Categorization

• XREF: connects to: Allport held that equal-status contact alone cannot reduce prejudice — John F. Dovidio, Peter Glick, Laurie A. Rudman, On the Nature of Prejudice: Fifty Years…, 1807; Allport estimated that conformity alone underlies roughly half of all prejudiced attitudes — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1888; Allport doubted contact would reduce prejudice except under specified positive conditions. — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1705 (+1 more)

Broader Connections

• Allport estimated that conformity alone underlies roughly half of all prejudiced attitudes #complicates (0.85) — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1888