Category: Human Nature

BIAS

I believe that it is a natural human condition to be biased. Everyone is born with that ability. From an early age we learn or seem to instinctively know how to like and dislike certain things. Most children dislike vegetables and love sweets. Not too long after we start to like or dislike some people who may or may not meet our expectations. As we become adults we really show our bias against other ethnic groups based on their background or the color of their skin.

As proof, take a sample of clear bias from the Bible. Samaritans were disliked by the Jews. At least they did not associate with them.

And about 60 years ago a more specific and horrific experience of bias was evidenced in the 2nd World War. Millions of Jews were murdered and tortured by the infamous Adolf Hitler.

In modern times, minority groups experience prejudice (bias) in one way or another.

Any individual who claims they are not biased is most likely simply not aware of his prejudice and is denying it. It does not make him or her unbiased!

I do not think that humans can change their natural inclination to be biased.

HAPPINESS

Happiness is strictly mind over matter, people and events. The dictionary may say it is a state of bliss, fortune, etc., but like any other state of being in this life, it is extremely hard to be accurate as to exactly what it is. But one thing you can say for sure is that happiness does not last. A few negative thoughts or unpleasant circumstances wipe the happiness right out of your mind. I believe that there cannot be any long term happiness. Could you be happy every second of every day for a whole week? If possible, you would be smiling or laughing sixteen hours a day (can you be happy while you sleep?). We humans are subject to many events, mainly leading to unhappiness and very few towards happiness. Religious believers hope to be happy constantly in Heaven, but not in the physical body. You cannot be happy with your physical body, because of gray hair, toothaches, etc.

Happiness is strictly only produced by your brain (mind over matter). Your attitude determines how happy you are. Your house could be on fire or you could be very sick physically and you can still be happy. Any questions?