How important are our values in shaping our perceptions? Why do we have such different views when it comes to certain things?
What seems obvious to some—like the strong evidence for climate change, the impact of racism, or the number of wrongful convictions—might not be clear to everyone. The size of the national debt or the crime rate are obvious to some people, but are not noticed by others. Some people are convinced that vaccines cause autism, while this idea is baffling to many who trust medical researchers. More: Judging someone’s character
Tell me what you pay attention to and I will tell you who you are.
José Ortega y Gasset
There are two fundamental types of assumptions. The first is that the external world affects us, and we react to it. For example, politics, climate, environment, and culture influence us in ways beyond our control. This perspective suggests that we respond to the external world and adapt accordingly.
The second approach posits that we actively participate in the world and co-create it, meaning we are not mere victims of circumstances. We have the power to change our world. Our perception, reaction, and evaluation of external events are closely linked to our internal thoughts and feelings.
How do our values shape our perceptions?
Outside circumstances can influence how we see facts, but our mental habits play a bigger role. So, it’s not about what others are doing, but more about how we interpret information based on what we already believe. Most people tend to believe what fits their desires, regardless of the facts they hear. More: Decisions Made From Fear vs. Love
One psychological reason for our conflicting views is called intuitive epistemology. Our values shape not only our opinions but also what we notice. Our values guide the core questions we keep asking about the world. For example, people who care about fighting oppression look for signs of oppression, while those who prioritize security look for threats. We don’t arrive at the same answers because we start with different questions. A value is not just a wish for what we want to see; it’s also a way of determining what we believe exists. More: How Moral Values Provide a Safe Harbor?
The divide in our perceptions
The more strongly people hold their values, the more these values influence their perceptions. Those with extreme value commitments are much more convinced that their views are correct. When people are driven by their values, no outside influences are needed to shape their perceptions. And no matter what journalists, scientists, or even investigators say, people are unlikely to change the views they have formed on their own.
Why does it matter whether the influences are external or internal? Because we can change or reform external influences. This gives us hope for a better future. If the problem is misinformation, we might fix it through education, fact-checking, or other changes. But if conflicting view come from individual projecting their deep-seated values, then no current methods can fix this. The future of facts will be one of division, not agreement.
Why do fact-checking and education may not bridge our divides?
Does fact-checking change people’s views when they believe different facts? Many people hope so, but there’s little evidence to support this. What about education? While it’s often seen as the way to progress, it may not help if people use their education to better project their values. For those eager to learn more, the key starting point is to approach with openness and genuine curiosity, free from preconceived conclusions. This mindset fosters growth and development, making change a natural part of our daily lives. It prepares us to handle whatever comes our way. More: Your Choices Mirror Your Self-Evaluation
Source: Morgan Marietta Ph.D. for Psychology Today
