Racism is the belief that inherent differences between races justify treating people differently, both socially and legally. Racism is a social disease that affects the world through fear, intolerance, separation, discrimination, and hatred, all stemming from ignorance. Racism has shaped modern societies by molding them from the beginning of time, as seen through figures like Hitler and slave owners, who preyed on racial prejudice and committed atrocities. Modern societies now try to offset racism through laws promoting mutual respect and dignity for all people, though changing hearts and fears is more difficult to legislate.