Critics of hate speech argue that it causes psychological harm to its victims, and physical harm when it incites violence. They also say that it makes its victims less equal in society. That is particularly true, they claim, because the social groups that are commonly the targets of hate speech have historically suffered from social marginalization and oppression.

Which conclusion is BEST supported by the selection? ]]>
Hate speech is speech or expression that belittles a person or persons because they belong (even allegedly) to a certain social group.

The word "belittles" in the sentence above connotes a feeling of: ]]>
Hate speech, they argue, is not just the "free expression of ideas;" it effectively diminishes its victims' standing in society.

What is the meaning of the phrase "diminishes its victims' standing in society" as used in the sentence above? ]]>