Children Quote by Riane Eisler
“We humans are wired for empathy by evolution, but when children grow up in dominator families they internalize this male over female template for relations early on. They then automatically apply it to other differences, whether based on race, religion, sexual orientation, and so forth.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Real Wealth of Nations by Riane Eisler, 1995
Evolution shaped human empathy, yet dominant family models teach a gendered relational template that spreads to other social differences.
In simple terms: Evolution gave us empathy; family patterns can bias it.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge inherited gendered biases.
Themes
empathy
gender
social bias
family dynamics
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
analytical
critical
When to use this quote
- parenting
- education
- workplace training
- community building
Key Concepts
evolutionary psychology
social conditioning
intersectionality
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your upbringing influence your view of gender roles?
- Can you identify moments when you applied gendered assumptions to other groups?
A Different Perspective
Biases may be deeply ingrained and resistant to change.
