For us truly defeat the harmful effects of prejudice we must understand our personal need/desire to keep it alive. Here are some of the ways (below) why prejudice appears difficult to conquer especially in one’s mind and how we might make it less bold in one’s thoughts.
(1) SAFETY- Our prejudice appears to protect against those that might due us harm. If instead we learn to spot out the behavioral characteristics of individuals from all walks of life we might lesson such impact on groups.
(2) SUPERIORITY- Groups want to prove their group is better then others. We need to have an all encompassing history that tells the successes and honest failures of our groups.
(3 FEAR – Unlike safety this is a fear of discussion with people from different walks of life because of conflicts it will bring externally which leads to feelings internally instead. Ground rules for any discussion must occur before words are spoken such as no personal attacks and of course no violence between the parties.
(4) COMFORT ZONE- It’s easier to stay in one’s comfort zone then explore the world around you for real. Let’s decide to grab a cup of coffee/tea with someone who might not fit our “normal groups” and find that there is comfort in all different settings.