In Touch with Reality

This article begins with an in-depth evaluation and to some extent a justification for stereotypes.  I have two arguments regarding this article.  The first has to do with the power of suggestion and the other what is the root of these stereotypes, is simply the need to categorize things, I wonder if the two are not linked.  Is this free will or an obligatory agreement?  What is about man that feeds a need to marginalize other, why is there justification for perception of negative stereotypes?  How does the power of suggestion play into the development and perpetuation of stereotypes? The article may offer some explanation, in it the author states that language does affect our thoughts, rather than just labeling for labeling sake. (Pinker, 2002).   He further states that language is a conduit by which we share our thoughts and intentions; it is how we acquire our knowledge and values.  This article I found quite challenging, the approach argues several linguistic concepts.  My concern is how the words are interpreted by the mind.    Is the mind not influenced by suggestions?  If I point out someone’s shortcoming for instant does that not become the defining attribute of that person.  What would happen if instead of stereotyping African Americans as bad credit risk, superstitious and most likely to be on welfare (p.3), along with many others not listed; instead classify African Americans for their ability to overcome adversity, for craftsmanship, their religious beliefs and loyalty to family?   

The author points out that language convey both literal meaning as well as attitude.  (Pinker, 2002).  In regards to how students learn what teacher do with the language and attitude as we present information has enormous potential or extreme ramifications.  The author talks about stereotypes and the role they have played in limiting positions for women and African Americans.  All of this relates back to our attitude.  I am not sure if there is just this overwhelming need to omit perceptions that are affiliated with the use of certain terms or the naiveté that some words have evolved to mean something more than it original meaning.  He states “The real struggle is over the power to control images.”

Pinker, S. (2002). In Touch With Reality Know Thyself (pp. 197-218).