So while stereotyping may provide cognitive shortcuts, it leads to false conclusions. It is an obstacle to human thought and social progress. Still, most stereotypes did not arise in a vacuum. They usually developed after a behavior pattern or trait was seen with great frequency and consistency among several members of a racial or ethnic group. The mental process of generalization produced the stereotype.
Some stereotypes are positive and some are negative.
All are irrational and anti-individualist. Many Jewish stereotypes are understood by viewing history. Jews have been stereotyped as being adept money handlers. In medieval Europe, many governments restricted usury and money handling to Jews and Arabs, believing it a practice morally inappropriate for Christians. Jews were barred entry into many other fields.