Pride, Prejudice and Inner Demons

We all know that prejudice is divisive, but if anyone thinks they are free from prejudice, think again!

Prejudice is a normal part of our brain's functioning, which automatically categorizes similar phenomena or ideas. It is impossible to stop the brain from doing this, just as it is impossible to stop our intestines from digesting the food we eat. Therefore, nobody can truthfully say they are free from prejudice, as the process of questioning and perfecting the conclusions of the brain's categorization function is a life-long endeavor.

However, this natural process becomes a problem when it is combined with other aspects of our human existence. One of the most basic human needs is to have a positive self-image. This is evident in the fact that people who cannot fulfill this need are often willing to destroy themselves instead of living with a negative self-image.

Many false leaders have manipulated this need by encouraging the people to demonize an "other" and thereby unite the people around their own vested interests. Demonization enables people to strengthen their sense of self-worth by "projecting" their own human failings on the "other" and thereby placing those failings outside of themselves.

It further enables those false leaders to incite the masses to attack that demonized other, instead of looking to their own failings and working to overcome them. Because of the need for a positive self-image, it is easier to attack our faults if we project them in others, than it is to recognize those faults as our own and attack them within ourselves.

Only a growing awareness of our shared humanity and frailties will allow us to realize that we all share the same sad failings and wonderful virtues, so that we can work together to overcome the former and cultivate the latter.