I am amused when goody-goodies proclaim, from the safety…
““I am amused when goody-goodies proclaim, from the safety of their armchairs, that children are naturally prejudice-free, that they only learn to "hate" from listening to bigoted adults. Nonsense. Tolerance is a learned trait, like riding a bike or playing the piano. Those of us who actually live among children, who see them in their natural environment, know the truth: Left to their own devices, children will gang up on and abuse anyone who is even slightly different from the norm.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Children are not naturally unbiased; prejudice is learned through social influence, much like any skill.
In simple terms: Prejudice is learned, not innate.
Key Takeaway
Teach inclusive values early.
Themes
psychology
social learning
prejudice
Mood
concerned
reflective
Type
educational
advocacy
When to use this quote
- schools
- parenting programs
- media campaigns
Key Concepts
bias formation
education
child development
Questions to Reflect On
- What early interventions reduce bias?
- How can adults model inclusivity?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep‑seated biases is challenging.