Stereotyping is one of the most important issues in social psychology, but relatively little is known about how and why stereotypes form. This book explores the process of stereotype formation; the way people develop impressions and view social groups. Conventional approaches to stereotyping assume that stereotypes are based on erroneous and distorted processes, but the authors of this unique study have a very different view. They propose that stereotypes form to explain aspects of social groups and; in particular; to explain relationships between groups.

Stereotyping is one of the most important issues in social psychology, but relatively little is known about how and why stereotypes form. This book explores the process of stereotype formation; the way people develop impressions and view social groups. Conventional approaches to stereotyping assume that stereotypes are based on erroneous and distorted processes, but the authors of this unique study have a very different view. They propose that stereotypes form to explain aspects of social groups and; in particular; to explain relationships between groups.

This book brings together contributors from different countries, covering a wide range of social science and social welfare traditions within psychology: from behaviourism to psychoanalysis. This cutting-edge and controversial collection of essays tackles many of the crises facing both radical politics and psychology in the light of multifarious 'post' debates. Providing a lucid overview and keen discussion, this collection contextualises developments at the interface between politics and psychology within a historical materialist framework, and connects the political practice of radicals in psychology with perspectives for change in contemporary Marxism. This radical volume creates a unique site for psychologists on the left to explore key issues in a changing political climate.