SOCIAL ISSUES VOCABULARY

Inequality: The state of not being equal, especially in status, rights, or opportunities.

Sentence: “Income inequality has been a growing concern in many countries, leading to widespread poverty.”

Discrimination: Unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, age, or sex.

Sentence: “Racial discrimination in the workplace can hinder employees’ opportunities for promotion and career growth.”

Prejudice: Preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience, often negative.

Sentence: “Prejudice against people from different cultures can lead to misunderstanding and conflict.”

Poverty: The state of being extremely poor, lacking basic necessities like food, shelter, and clothing.

Sentence: “Despite efforts to reduce poverty, millions of people around the world still live without access to clean water or proper healthcare.”

Human Rights: The basic rights and freedoms to which all humans are entitled, such as freedom of speech, education, and equality before the law.

Sentence: “Organizations worldwide are working to protect human rights, particularly in areas where governments violate individual freedoms.”

Affirmative Action: A policy designed to correct past discrimination by providing equal opportunities to marginalized groups.

Sentence: “Affirmative action programs are intended to create a level playing field in education and employment for people from disadvantaged backgrounds.”

Social Exclusion: The process by which certain individuals or groups are marginalized or left out of mainstream society.

Sentence: “Social exclusion often leads to feelings of alienation and can contribute to mental health problems.”

Gender Equality: The state in which people of all genders have equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities.

Sentence: “Gender equality in the workplace can lead to improved collaboration and innovation among employees.”

Immigration: The action of coming to live permanently in a foreign country.

Sentence: “Debates over immigration policies have become increasingly polarizing in many countries.”

Racism: Prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one’s own race is superior.

Sentence: “Racism continues to be a major barrier to social progress, especially in multicultural societies.”

Child Labor: The practice of employing children in work that deprives them of their childhood, education, and well-being.

Sentence: “Despite international laws prohibiting child labor, it remains prevalent in some developing countries due to economic hardship.”

Homelessness: The condition of having no home or permanent place to live.

Sentence: “Homelessness is not just an economic issue; it also affects mental health and access to basic services.”

Mental Health: The state of one’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being, affecting how people think, feel, and behave.

Sentence: “Raising awareness about mental health issues is crucial in reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek help.”

Addiction: The condition of being physically or psychologically dependent on a substance or activity, such as drugs, alcohol, or gambling.

Sentence: “Addiction to social media has become a significant issue, particularly among young people.”

Domestic Violence: Abuse or violence that occurs within the home, often involving a partner, spouse, or family member.

Sentence: “Domestic violence is a hidden epidemic in many communities, with victims often unable to escape abusive situations.”