I think this latest series on biases, distortions, etc has been very informative. One thing I would say is that I believe the comment, "Being socially shunned is a legitimate fear with today’s Twitter mobs and call-out and cancel cultures," underestimates the seriousness of the fear of exclusion. I believe, and I think that research bears this out, that exclusion from the community is one of our deepest fears. Supported by evolutionary weight, there was a time not so long ago when exclusion from the the city or tribe or whatever meant certain death. Our desire for belonging is powerful and enduring. It is not surprising, therefore, that this emotional energy will warp and distort our view of the world.
Agree. That's why societies and communities have to work to welcome and promote the expression of viewpoint diversity. Humans are easily cowed by social pressures.
I think this latest series on biases, distortions, etc has been very informative. One thing I would say is that I believe the comment, "Being socially shunned is a legitimate fear with today’s Twitter mobs and call-out and cancel cultures," underestimates the seriousness of the fear of exclusion. I believe, and I think that research bears this out, that exclusion from the community is one of our deepest fears. Supported by evolutionary weight, there was a time not so long ago when exclusion from the the city or tribe or whatever meant certain death. Our desire for belonging is powerful and enduring. It is not surprising, therefore, that this emotional energy will warp and distort our view of the world.
Agree. That's why societies and communities have to work to welcome and promote the expression of viewpoint diversity. Humans are easily cowed by social pressures.
Excellent article!!!!