Co-author: Ricole Tay
Passing judgement on things and people is undoubtedly a natural response. In fact, imposing judgements on others can be done so easily and effortlessly that we fail to realise the damage we might cause. In this digital age, our opinions are formed not only based on the news but also with the social media content that we consume. With the prevalent use of social media, it is possible for one to get swayed by the views of others. Moreover, when the perceived majority seems to share the same opinion, it may reduce one’s motivation to want to know the whole truth. As a result, there may be a decrease in the ability to empathise and understand why people behave in certain ways. Having judgement is normal, howbeit what we do with our judgement is within our control. Have there been instances where we took it too far? In this article, we hope to share the impact media has on our standpoint, fundamental attribution error and what we can do to lessen the likelihood of wrongly judging others and prevent it to the best of our abilities.
The negative impact of media
Social media have been an effective platform for communicating and sharing the news and one’s personal life. For all the benefits that it comes with, it does come with many downsides. Being on social media exposes one to many different opinions online. However, depending on the types of articles we consume, the algorithm would show us opinion pieces and articles that are more aligned with our views. As such, one may easily be influenced by the views of the perceived majority. Moreover, with ‘cancel culture,’ where people with differing opinions may be cyberbullied by anonymous users online, people are more afraid of the backlash they may get if they were to justify their unpopular opinion or stand up against the majority for what they think is right. Hence, although we may have more access to different opinions, it is becoming more common for individuals to be ‘followers’ instead of forming their own opinions.
Where are the boundaries?
Typically, content put out on the internet is deemed public information even if one’s account is private. The amount of information one leaves behind through their digital footprint is often overlooked. Doxxing has become such a common response to people who behave in a manner that may seem morally unacceptable. Be it driving recklessly, passing a law, or pulling out one’s car plate; we have all witnessed the consequence that they faced - having their private information leaked. The extent of the leak often depends on how viral the issue becomes online. To some, doxxing is deemed as a deserving consequence, but for others, they may feel that the consequence may be out of proportion as it tarnishes one’s image and reputation, affecting people's perception of them, possibly future opportunities, and most importantly, their mental health. There has yet to be a standard as to what is acceptable. As such, before we partake in the spread of one's personal information, stop and take a moment to reflect if this extra step is necessary.
Possible reasons for negative reactions
Influence of fundamental attribution errors
Fundamental attribution error refers to the tendency for individuals to attribute another’s action to internal factors such as their personality traits while attributing one’s own behaviour to external factors beyond their control. Fundamental attribution errors are widely noticeable online. The comment section of media posts is more often than not flooded with comments that attribute the individual's behaviour to their personal characteristics. For example, when a young individual does not give up their seat in public transport, users would comment ‘unfilial’ or ‘disrespectful’, when in reality, the individual could have their reason for not giving up their seat, such as an injury that was not visible or that they were feeling unwell. Hence, it is important to prevent making fundamental attribution errors as it leads one to speculate and make a sweeping judgement.
Close-mindedness
Being narrow-minded is closely linked to passing judgements too quickly. Typically, close-mindedness can result in labelling and generalising an individual based on one specific trait. Close-minded individuals are often fixated on their stand as the individual is unable to think past their thoughts. There could be many possibilities to explain why people can be so deeply rooted in their judgements and refuse to look at things from another perspective or even listen to them. Personal prejudice and experiences can form one’s judgement on issues, hindering the ability to look at them from a neutral standpoint. They may feel strongly towards certain groups of people, which results in making judgements too quickly without uncovering the truth beneath all the surface-level visuals presented to them.
Becoming more open-minded
There are many ways to hold off your judgement, and most solutions involve personal growth.
Practice empathy. Put yourself in the shoes of the individuals involved. Empathise with the individual who has been accused or shamefully criticised. Will you be able to listen objectively if they share their side of the story? Ask yourself the other possible reasons that could explain their actions. Additionally, we can disagree with the behaviour and attitude of others. However, what we choose to do with our disagreement is within our control. We can be empathetic and kind with our responses instead of being mean and shaming the individual involved, as it ultimately does no good to both parties.
Discuss with your friends or family. Ask others for their thoughts on the situation. Doing so might give you a fresh perspective that you had never considered. This allows you to provide the individual with the benefit of the doubt until the verdict is announced.
No one is perfect. Understand that everyone makes mistakes and people have their bad days. External and internal factors such as pent-up anger, family, money, work issues or mental health conditions might account for the behaviour displayed in the videos/pictures. That does not necessarily define who they are as an individual, and it is unfair to label them so quickly.
Exercise caution. There are always two sides to the story. Seek the whole truth before concluding.
Make the internet a safer space for all. Discuss the issue in the comment section instead of making personal attacks.
Forming opinions and judging others are common, and we may even do it unintentionally. However, before verbalising your judgements and acting on them, it is imperative that we take a step back and consider the possible damage our actions may have on the individual. If you have a strong urge to voice something, share your opinions respectfully and maybe give ways to what you think could help. As our perception is influenced by our experiences, taking this step can allow discussions and facilitate understanding between people with differing opinions.
Interesting reads
https://www.ucf.edu/pegasus/is-cancel-culture-effective/
https://www.verywellmind.com/be-more-open-minded-4690673
https://theconversation.com/do-social-media-algorithms-erode-our-ability-to-make-decisions-freely-the-jury-is-out-140729