What is essentialize?

Essentialize is a term used in philosophy and psychology, referring to the process of reducing complex ideas or individuals down to just one essential or defining trait. This can be a useful tool for understanding or categorizing things, but it can also result in oversimplification or perpetuating stereotypes. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the potential harm caused by essentializing people based on their race, gender, sexuality, or other characteristics. Therefore, it is important to approach essentializing with caution and consider the broader context and complexities of the subject.