Examples of Discrimination in Zootopia

Zootopia, a 2016 animated film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios, portrays a world where anthropomorphic animals coexist. The movie follows Judy Hopps, a rabbit who aspires to become the first rabbit police officer in the city of Zootopia. Throughout the film, various instances of discrimination are depicted, mirroring real-world societal issues. These examples of discrimination in Zootopia provide valuable insights into the complexities of prejudice and bias, making the film a compelling subject for analysis.

Speciesism

One of the most prominent forms of discrimination in Zootopia is speciesism, which refers to the prejudice or discrimination based on species. In the film, predators and prey are stereotyped and marginalized based on their species. Predators are commonly perceived as aggressive and dangerous, while prey animals are viewed as meek and vulnerable. This bias is evident in the portrayal of Nick Wilde, a fox who faces discrimination and prejudice due to his predator status. Despite his intelligence and capabilities, Nick is often treated with suspicion and mistrust solely because of his species.

Additionally, the film explores the concept of "biological essentialism," the belief that certain characteristics are inherent to specific species. This belief is challenged as Judy Hopps, a small and seemingly vulnerable rabbit, defies societal expectations by pursuing a career in law enforcement. Her determination to overcome prejudice and prove herself as a capable police officer highlights the harmful effects of species-based discrimination.

Racial Profiling

Zootopia also delves into the issue of racial profiling, a form of discrimination based on a person's perceived race or ethnicity. The film portrays how certain characters, particularly predators, are unfairly targeted and scrutinized by law enforcement due to their species. This parallels real-world instances of racial profiling, where individuals are subjected to discriminatory treatment based on their race or ethnic background.

For example, Judy Hopps herself initially holds prejudiced attitudes towards predators, reflecting the internalization of societal biases. Her transformation throughout the film, as she confronts her own prejudices and works to challenge systemic discrimination, serves as a poignant commentary on the impact of racial profiling and the importance of empathy and understanding.

Intersectionality

Another aspect of discrimination explored in Zootopia is intersectionality, the interconnected nature of social categorizations such as race, class, and gender, as they apply to an individual or group. The film addresses how these intersecting identities can contribute to complex experiences of discrimination and privilege.

For instance, characters such as Assistant Mayor Bellwether, a sheep, experience discrimination based on both their species and their position within the social hierarchy. Bellwether's resentment towards predators and her manipulation of societal prejudices underscore the ways in which individuals can perpetuate discriminatory attitudes, even when they themselves have experienced marginalization based on their own identities.

Conclusion

Through its exploration of speciesism, racial profiling, and intersectionality, Zootopia offers a thought-provoking commentary on the prevalence and impact of discrimination in society. The film's portrayal of these complex issues serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of challenging prejudice and bias, and the potential for positive change through empathy and understanding. By examining the examples of discrimination in Zootopia, we gain valuable insights into the complexities of social inequality and the potential for transformation and progress.