The recognition of a quality or value in someone that is not there can cause harm for that person.
For example, if a person is told repeatedly that they are not capable of something because of their skin color, birth place, education, background etc., their ability to succeed in that thing is less likely for two reasons.
- They may internalize the belief that they are unable to do it, meaning they don’t even try.
- To succeed at that thing may require recognition or interaction with others. If the belief that they are unable to succeed is widespread, the world may conspire unconsciously to hold them back from succeeding.
Connections
Beliefs Require A Background of Culture To Be Valid
Defining One’s Self Requires Differentiating and Associating Personal Qualities With Others
Reference
� The Ethics of Authenticity