What defines a hate crime?

A hate crime is specifically defined by its motivation: it targets individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other social identities. This distinction reflects the underlying intent to intimidate or harm individuals simply for who they are, thus making option B the correct answer.

The other options do not encompass the specific motivations associated with hate crimes. Criminal offenses motivated by financial gain pertain to theft or fraud, targeting economic interests rather than social identities. Offenses against animals could address issues of animal cruelty or neglect, which, while serious, do not involve the social identity aspect. Lastly, crimes based on economic disparities focus on financial or economic conditions rather than the inherent characteristics of a person or group. Each of these does not capture the essence of a hate crime as defined by motivations tied to social identity.