Which term is defined as the treatment or consideration of, or making a distinction in favor of or against a person or thing based on the group to which the person belongs rather than on individual merit?

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Discrimination is the act of treating someone differently or making a distinction based on the group they belong to rather than evaluating them on their individual merit. This definition matches the scenario described, where treatment or consideration hinges on group membership. Stereotypes are general beliefs about a group, prejudices are negative feelings toward a group, and an attitude is a broad mental stance toward someone or something. Only discrimination captures the idea of differential treatment itself.