The Importance Of Being Unbiased
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

The Importance Of Being Unbiased

There are two sides to any story.

4178
The Importance Of Being Unbiased
static1.squarespace.com

We have to face the fact that snap judgments have become a problem in today's culture. Whether it's about politics or religious beliefs, people tend to pick their side and stick with it. But what makes this a bigger problem is that it affects the way we treat one another. Everyone is in some shape or form biased, but it's how we create our biases that really matter.

When I hear someone say, "Oh, they're being extremely close-minded", I interpret that as a person saying that their assumptions are what controls their beliefs. Beliefs are what we are raised to follow and how we form our values. They're taught at birth (for the most part), meaning that we're somewhat robbed of the opportunity to think and believe on our own. This is how biases form because we are told to believe in one thing and one thing only. However, that shouldn't be the case when it comes to judgments and how we choose to perceive certain situations.

Growing up, I've learned that it's important to not only stand up for your own beliefs but to also have support on why you value them in the first place. For example, when a national or global crisis happens, I always check both CNN and Fox News, because I want to see how conservatives and liberals react to the situation before I can properly take my stance. I do this so that I can see the bigger picture of the problem and be able to voice my opinion in a more effective way rather than making claims that are unrealistic and absurd. I always go through a handful of sources just to make sure I'm getting the full story. In order to have value, you need to be able to find where that acceptance and truth comes from.

Another way of saying this is that we need to learn other points of view in order to strengthen our own. I can claim that I love vanilla ice cream and that it's the best flavor out there. But (in this example) vanilla is the only flavor I've ever consumed in my life. If I'm unaware of the taste of chocolate, strawberry, rocky road, etc., then how can my judgement be clear and rational if I'm not credible enough in what I'm claiming? I believe that vanilla is th best because it's all I'm aware of. However, once trying all the other flavors and confirming that vanilla is the best, it's enough to give me the support I need to show that I have indeed tried others flavors and yet still lean towards vanilla.

Although this was a juvenile way to explain it, portraying why biases can be damaging is important because judgements and reasoning can be false if they are not properly examined and executed. Overall, you need to be willing to stand in someone else's shoes before forming your own set of beliefs.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned.

70885
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

132475
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments