Final Perceptions

Have you ever assumed something about an individual before even meeting them? What about exchange awkward looks with a homeless man when you automatically respond "I don't have any money" before he even speaks to you? This post, my last post is about perception. I find it very comical that perception is a basis for virtually all decision making, yet it is also one of the most changing parts of anything.

The reason that perception is of such importance in this post comes from the news clip concerning religious tension between Muslims and Buddhists in Myanmar. Just as in many religious uprisings, people were embarrassed, tortured and even killed. What seemed to be the most shocking however, was that the ones doing the harassing in this area were the Buddhists. So often does one read about Muslim extremists who blow up a building, or destroy a village, but rarely do you get to see them as victims. The Buddhists on the other hand, who are known as these peaceful people were given a darker image as they were recorded doing the previously mentioned things to Muslim communities.

While watching the video, I was so surprised, not only in the actions of these people though, but also within myself. Somehow in my mind, I had already assumed that the terrorizers were Muslim. Its amazing to see how conditioned one becomes without even knowing it.

 As I sat in today's last class, I found myself really thinking about my progression over the course. Despite everything else, I truly believe that I have become so much more aware of my biases and how they shape our perceptions. As I have read more arguments about traditions and their philosophies, I have noticed my mind change about many topics. I am so glad to be able to see that growth within myself, especially as I transition from the environment here at Spelman to the 'real' world. Because of this course I now find myself challenging the statements of others more often as well as engaging in more critical thinking. While I have not completely changed in some aspects, I know that I am a more rounded and globally engaged scholar, a trait I plan to continue cultivating. I look forward to reading the blogs of the next class and seeing them grow, just as I have.