
The Oatmeal
I’m a post-a-day kind of girl, but sometimes, I allow myself a little extra something on a Friday afternoon. This is one of those extra somethings.
I read this piece on Wednesday. I then scrolledlback up to the top and read it again. Yesterday, I read it a third time, and it has really made me think. The piece is an interesting take on why we react the way we do to certain facts that don’t fit comfortably within our world view. It’s utterly non-political, a quick read, and very visual.
These days, when technology and the media make it so easy to filter out dissenting opinions, I suspect we could all use a little help in really hearing what those with whom we disagree are saying. And a better understanding of where our reactions come from could help us be more receptive to other’s feelings on polarizing topics. I’m as guilty as anyone else of plugging my ears to opinions with which I disagree, and I don’t think it’s particularly good for my sanity or for my relationships.
I’m all for anything that helps us get along better, and this seems like an exercise that might actually make a real difference. Hope you find it as thought provoking as I did:
Believe by The Oatmeal
Have a nice long weekend, all!

September 1, 2017 at 9:54 pm
Thank you for sharing this. It’s a great explanation. I was chatting about this very psychological effect with my oldest sons not so long ago and struggling to explain it (the context being my desire not to retreat into an echo chamber of political opinion) so I’m going to show them this as a much better explanation.
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September 2, 2017 at 8:48 am
I am sure I have heard about this effect before, but it didn’t resonate with me like this telling did. And I do think it’s a good way to explain the concept to kids. So glad you are talking to them about all this.
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September 5, 2017 at 5:59 pm
Thanks, Donna! This is a fantastic find.
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September 5, 2017 at 8:40 pm
Thank you! I really loved it. Glad you did, too.
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September 30, 2017 at 1:40 pm
Thanks. It reminds me that looking for one beautiful thing every day changes how one perceives things all day.
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September 30, 2017 at 1:44 pm
I’m glad. Some days, it’s easier than others, but it’s definitely a worthwhile pursuit!
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