The world is made up of millions of people who come from different places, are part of different races, believe in different religions, and have developed cultures different from others. Throughout human history, the differences we have developed have played a huge role in dividing us. Perhaps the main problem that has plagued society in the past, and continues to do so today, is the idea that one individual's race is superior to that of others; in other words: racism. Racism has led to discrimination, oppression and the death of countless people. Racism today is often closely associated with stereotypes. In today's society, being stereotyped often earns you the criticism that "you're racist." Racial stereotypes tend to describe one's race in a negative way, which may explain why the two words are frequently interchanged. However, the two have very different meanings and should not be confused. Although the two groups are separate entities, they share roots. Lack of knowledge and understanding of a breed can lead to one or the other and sometimes both. Although racism and stereotyping are condemned, there seems to be a more lenient attitude towards stereotyping. For example, the media constantly reminds us that white people are rich, while blacks and Hispanics are poor, and that Asians are very intelligent and skilled in martial arts. It's not uncommon for TV shows, movies, and commercials to be filled with generalized depictions. of certain people and certain groups. Most are considered offensive. However, when comedy tries to play with stereotypes, it's not uncommon for people to get offended. Stereotypes play an important role in comedy. Popular shows like ...... middle of paper ...... tools such as stereotypes, we share a lot in common. Such a level of connection allows us to laugh at each other at the absurdities we naturally believe about the people who share this world with us. Works CitedFoote, Kim. “No more Oburoni. » One world, several cultures. Hirscheberg, S. & Hirschberg, T. Pearson Longman, 2009. 332-339 “180 million fans”. Parker, T and Stone, Mr. South Park. Comedy Central. New York. Paul, Annie. “Where prejudice begins: the truth about stereotypes. » Psychology today May 1st. 1998. September 29, 2009. “Factile: Global Migration.” BBC. Internet. September 30. 2009.