Culture Quote by Elizabeth Lesser
“I'm deeply disturbed by the ways in which all of our cultures are demonizing the other. This is why I'm launching a new initiative, and it's to help all of us, myself included, to counteract the tendency to otherize.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: TEDx Talk on Cultural Division, Elizabeth Lesser, 2015
Societies often label differences as threats, fostering division; intentional initiatives can counteract othering and promote empathy.
In simple terms: Recognize and challenge the habit of seeing others as “other.”
Key Takeaway
Build empathy, reduce division.
Themes
culture
empathy
division
Mood
thoughtful
optimistic
Type
motivational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- community building
- education programs
- dialogue circles
Key Concepts
social psychology
in‑group bias
humanity
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal habits reinforce othering?
- How can you model inclusive behavior daily?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep‑seated biases requires sustained effort beyond a single initiative.
