Friday 17 April 2009

Instant judgements

We all make them, and occasionally regret them. We take one look at someone, and decide how we will react to them.

I've heard about Susan Boyle a few times this week. Don't recognise the name? That's not really surprising. She's appearing on a TV talent show (see video). If you haven't seen it, it's worth watching - not just for her amazing voice, but for the reactions and (towards the end) the honest assessment by Amanda Holden of the prejudice that Susan instantly faced.

I won't be following the contest, although I will no doubt hear it on the news if she wins, but the challenge is: how do I avoid making the same kind of judgement tomorrow, and the day after that?

3 comments:

His Girl Friday said...

quite true. Much like the opera singer guy; however, they seemed a bit more harsh with the lady.

ps. I'm always trying to check myself with the judgment thing...not always easy.

Tess said...

This is really interesting. I'm only coming to it late because she's been on the news. You're right to ask the question about instant judgements.

And even so, as I watched I couldn't help but think "well why can't she pluck her eyebrows at least", and I'm pretty sure from Cowell's expression that he was wondering how on earth to package her.

It's a really, really interesting reflection on what 'appropriate' behaviour and looks are all about.

nonprofitprophet said...

I used to be really bad about that. Partly due to my former occupations, but sometimes just because. I have made great progress in not judgeing folks prior to getting to know them. I can make general assumptions, but not judgements.