An irrational fear or hatred of people, things, or ideas that are different or foreign.
From Greek hetero- (different) + -phobia (fear of). This term combines the prefix for 'different' with the suffix for 'fear,' creating a word for fear of difference itself.
Heterophobia is basically the fear of 'the other'—and it's tragically common throughout human history! Understanding this term helps us recognize prejudice and xenophobia as fear-based reactions to difference rather than rational judgments.
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