Ignorance Based Thinking

Ignorance Based Thinking

Ignorance based thinking means that a person makes judgments without sufficient knowledge. Ignorance based thinking is often associated with stereotyping. Stereotyping people, or in other words, “painting everyone with the same brush” occurs when we base an opinion on a single encounter be it good or bad. Stereotyping is unfair because we do not take into account the personal characteristics of the individual person. Stereotyping is harmful because it leads to mistreatment. Stereotyping a group of people is often negative and encourages other forms of ignorance based acts such as racism, bias, prejudice and discrimination.

Racism:

·  Prejudice based on the belief of superiority of one's race.

Ex. You believe that your race is the best above all others and should receive preferential treatment.

Stereotype:

·  An unjustified, usually negative, mental picture of a group of people.

Ex. You believe that all jocks are dumb.

Prejudice:

·  A preconceived negative opinion used to exclude people.

Ex. You dislike immigrant people because you believe that they are taking all the jobs.

Discrimination:

·  Unfavorable treatment based on prejudice.

Ex. A shopkeeper refuses to allow any students to enter his business.

Bias:

·  A personal inclination or preference that leads to the unfair treatment.

Ex. You are referee in game and you overlook some penalties against your home team.

Discussion:

What do the following stereotype messages conjure up as you read them?

·  All blondes are dumb.

·  Girls love to shop.

·  All jocks are dumb.

·  Never trust a traveling salesperson.

·  People on welfare are just lazy.

Can you think of any TV or radio shows that perpetuate ignorance based thinking?

What actions can we take to stop ignorance based thinking?

What can we do as individuals to change others attitudes?

·  Let people know that you are uncomfortable with the topic of discussion.

·  Inform people who are not properly informed about a topic.

·  Model the kind of behavior you expect from others.

·  Do not participate in picking on someone or bullying.

·  Choose friends who are open minded.