OT: Stereotypes (Was: Re: SCO in Mesa)

[Alan Dayley]

Technomage-hawke wrote:
> On Tuesday 25 September 2007 11:56, Craig White wrote:
>>
>> If you go, wear white shirts to blend in (and leave the Mountain Dew
>> behind).
>>
>> ;-)
>>
> 
> don't forget the "white ON black" nametags (so common with mormons - I should 
> I know, I *WAS* one once.)
> 
> :)

I don't see anything offensive in the above comments.  In fact, they are
kind of funny.  Stereotypes are a good vehicle to poke fun at cultures
and sub-cultures.  But I suggest caution in their use.

Stereotypes are useful since they provide a working context when dealing
with individuals from a certain group.  The context allows workable
interaction in the absence of more detailed and personally specific
information.

Stereotypes are dangerous when they are continuously applied to all
individuals of a group, even if certain individuals have demonstrated
unique characteristics that allow deeper interaction.  Limiting
another's ability to communicate and grow because they are pidgin-holed
by others into certain expected behaviors is not a good thing.  Limiting
your own world view with the tunnel vision of stereotypes is bad for
yourself.

Alan


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