Prejudice Against Slytherins (WAS"Would" versus "Was")

[cynthiaanncoe at home.com]

No: HPFGUIDX 27458

--- In HPforGrownups at y..., fourfuries at a... wrote:
> Harry's judgement about Slytherin was based on Malfoy's actions, 
and 
> what Harry had heard about the actions of other Slytherin alumni.  
I 
> think some prejudicial caution was in order.
> 
Although I agree that some "prejudice" is necessary to function and 
that unfounded prejudice is certainly cause for concern, I don't know 
that Harry has good cause to think most Slytherins are bad.  One 
indicator of unwarranted prejudice is observing a negative trait in 
one member of a group and generalizing it to the entire group, as 
Harry may have done with Malfoy.  Another indicator could be a 
readiness to ascribe negative characteristics to a group based on 
rumor and legend instead of personal observation.  

Cindy (who is willing to cut Harry a break because he has almost no 
knowledge of the wizarding world when he reaches these conclusions)