for example, identification and labelling of an 'enemy', thus providing a group with a shared 'mythology' and helping to reinforce their sense of group identity. Stern points out that a person may hate abstract groups, but not specific individuals who belong to that group, and observes that not all group prejudices operate in the same way. Religious studies - Stern notes that religion has been used to justify "barbaric carnage", and that the intersection of religion with hatred "can be most dangerous when theology and ideology are combined." Stern notes the interaction between religion, government, and education in some states such as Saudi Arabia routinely promotes hatred. Stern suggests that how government institutions deal with religion is increasingly important, and "something in which an integrated field of hate studies could make a major contribution." Political science - Stern points out that hate has often been used to accomplish political goals. Stern suggests that political considerations may set limits on our ability to confront hate, and may take precedence over morality, or even law enforcement, by allowing hate crimes to occur for political reasons. Law - Stern discusses the utility of hate crime legislation, which may provide estimates of the number of hate crimes and justify harsher sentences on criminals who target victims based on race, religion, disability, sex, or sexual orientation. He notes the limitations of relying on the legal system as a solution to social problems. Journalism - Stern discusses the impact of media coverage of hate groups on public opinion, and suggests that journalists should be trained in hate studies, to improve their reporting and educate the general public. Stern also mentions the importance of biology, anthropology, economics, and education. References Sources External links Gonzaga University Institute for Hate Studies The Journal of Hate Studies International Network for Hate Studies The Leicester Centre for Hate Studies Studies Interdisciplinary subfields of sociology