“A great many people think they are thinking when they are merely rearranging their prejudices.”
—William James, 19th Century American philosopher
The term “prejudice” carries negative connotations for most people. We see numerous examples related to prejudice when we watch the local, national, and global news.
Few consider themselves prejudiced. “That label applies to the short-sighted individuals out there, not to me.”
Today’s quote points to the fact that our everyday thinking is actually a form of prejudice that helps us navigate our world, on the one hand, and which can limit us on the other hand.
EXERCISE:
How often do you find yourself exploring new ways of thinking, or trying on views other than those you have held for years?
What would be possible, and what value could you create, if you were to rearrange your prejudices?