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Dealing with Prejudices

of Another

  • A person with prejudices believes in their reactive and negative impressions of a group of people as the truth of those people.

  • Listen to see if the person expresses a view that shows a whisper of empathy.

  • Does the person with a prejudice convey a few words of empathy for those subjected to suffering of war and famine?

  • Do not express views opposite to the one who is intolerant/prejudiced/sexist/anti-refugee/anti-Muslim/racist etc. You will intensify the views of other.

  • Your eyes do not leave the eyes of the other. Your voice is lower than normal.

  • If you argue, you will reinforce the self-righteousness of the other.

  • Never raise the voice or speed up speech unless you want the person to become ever more intolerant.

  • You do not interrupt the stream of prejudice.

  • Let the person speak if he or she wishes until the person runs out of words. Stay very still and upright.

  • Remember to keep all your questions short and to the point. Do not waste a word or a sentence. Do not explain your position. You are only interested in their views.

  • Your departure leaving the other with an appreciative note may leave the person with prejudices engaging in reflection on their own attitude.

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