Challenging the Subtle Racism in Ourselves

Recent cognitive research has shed light on a fundamental human tendency: our instinctive response to individuals who do not look like us is often one of caution. While this instinct can be deeply rooted and instinctive, it is important to recognize and address how it may manifest in our behaviors and attitudes.

Biological Roots of Prejudice

A study titled Probing Prejudice with Startle Eyeblink Modification: A Marker of Attention, Emotion, or Both provides fascinating insights into how our brains react to different facial features. When individuals encounter someone with a different appearance, their startle response and eyeblink rate can change, indicating a heightened state of vigilance or potential threat.

Confronting Our Biases

It is crucial to confront and understand our own biases. Acting on defense or denial will not help us make progress. Awareness, acceptance, intentional kindness, and engaging in meaningful conversations are key steps in evolving our perspectives.

A Personal Reflection

Many of us may be surprised to find our own unconscious biases at work. I acknowledge that I might have unwittingly held prejudiced views in the past, and I am always committed to continuous learning and self-improvement. However, I must admit that I can't think of any specific instances in my past where I exhibited overt racism. Nevertheless, we should all remain open to introspection, as we can be momentarily blind to our own biases.

Fighting Prejudice through Raising Awareness

Being raised in a household free of any kind of prejudice is a significant advantage. My mother instilled in us the importance of equality and respect, teaching us to see beyond superficial differences. By setting an example, we can instill these values in future generations and work towards a more inclusive society.

The Role of Recognizing Race

The acknowledgment of race necessitates our recognition of potential prejudices within ourselves. It challenges us to question our own behaviors and beliefs, encouraging us to become more aware and accepting. We must actively work towards acknowledging and addressing these biases to build a more equitable and understanding world.

Continuous learning and self-reflection are essential in challenging our subconscious tendencies. Let us commit to being better and more accepting of everyone, embracing the unique aspects that make each individual captivating and valuable.