The Psychology of Stereotypes:
Can we ‘hardwire’ ourselves not to fear difference?
I was intrigued to read Daniel Tutt’s recent article in the Huffington Post, entitled “Neuroscience and the Changing Media Stereotypes of Muslims.” Tutt notes, “…Neuroscientists have found that the introduction of positive images of ‘out-groups’ does indeed lower the levels of fear of the other, and it reforms the automatic hardwired processes.” But what does it mean if positive pictures and images of ‘others’ — including religious ‘others’ — can actually retrain our minds to be less fearful or encourage us to act in less prejudicial ways? How does that impact our work as religious leaders? Is it manipulative or problematic to target our colleagues, congregants, and friends with positive images of the religious ‘others’ we see in our communities?
This will be the weekly topic of discussion for next week. I eagerly await your responses — and the chance to learn from you!
Josh Stanton