Biases

Can’t Control What You Can’t

June 3, 2024 By Nagesh Belludi Leave a Comment

Stoic Control Test: Can't Control What You Can't During the period spanning from 300 BCE to the third century CE, Stoicism flourished as a profound source of guidance, providing comfort to many individuals enduring profound adversity. Its significance declined with the emergence of Christianity, but the essence of Stoicism has experienced a revival in the present era. An increasing number of people are now reconnecting with its enduring significance and gaining valuable insights into the complexities of our modern world.

The crux of Stoic philosophy finds its essence in the Control Test, articulated in the Handbook or Enchiridion, a collection of lectures by the Roman Stoic Epictetus. He succinctly states: “Within our power are opinion, motivation, desire, aversion, and, in a word, whatever is of our own doing; not within our power are our body, our property, reputation, office, and, in a word, whatever is not of our own doing.” This underscores that our sphere of influence encompasses our actions, reactions, desires, character, and interactions with others. Everything else—our physical bodies, the actions of others, our reputations, and our material fortunes—lies beyond our control.

You’re eyeing someone special and hoping they’ll catch feelings? Sorry, but that’s out of your hands.

Stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic? Yep, out of your control too.

Dealing with family drama during the holidays? That’s a mix. Some of it you can manage with good communication and setting boundaries, but some things are just beyond your control.

Running short on time? Well, you’ve got a bit of control there too. By managing your time wisely and prioritizing, you can make the most of what you’ve got.

Feeling the pressure of academics? You’ve got some say in that. How? Well, by building good study habits, managing your time well, and reaching out for help when you need it.

Dreaming of landing that perfect job? Sure, you can toss in an application, but who’ll hired? Well, that’s not up to you.

Getting older? Well, that’s mostly out of your control, though making healthy choices can slow things down a bit.

Got hit with a cancer diagnosis? You can give it your all to fight it, but sometimes even the best treatment can’t stop it from spreading.

Idea for Impact: Make the lens of Stoic Control the cornerstone of your daily concerns. It’ll aid you in pinpointing where to channel your energy for maximum effectiveness, alleviating stress, and, crucially, maintaining perspective.

Embracing Cultural Sensitivity: A Case Study of Akira Kurosawa’s Oscar Speech

May 6, 2024 By Nagesh Belludi Leave a Comment

Consider the acceptance speech delivered by the renowned director Akira Kurosawa when he received the Honorary Award at the 62nd Academy Awards in 1989. This award recognized his lifetime achievements and his significant impact on filmmaking, both in Japan and internationally.

I am very deeply honored to receive such a wonderful prize, but I have to ask whether I really deserve it. I’m a little worried, because I don’t feel that I understand cinema yet. I really don’t feel that I have yet grasped the essence of cinema. Cinema is a marvelous thing, but to grasp its true essence is very, very difficult. But what I promise you is that from now on I will work as hard as I can at making movies and maybe by following this path I will achieve an understanding of the true essence of cinema and earn this award. George [Lucas], Steven [Spielberg]. Thank you.

In the Western world, some may perceive this language as a display of false modesty. It appears that the legendary Kurosawa, whose cinematic genius revolutionized storytelling, downplays his abilities and achievements, seemingly deflecting praise.

Let’s Be Cautious Not to Impose Norms We Call Our Own

While Kurosawa’s speech might come across as insincere or disingenuous, it’s important to consider cultural relativism. Different cultures have varying values, norms, and philosophical perspectives. What might be seen as a positive sentiment in one culture can be perceived differently in another.

Respecting Diversity: Avoiding Imposing Personal Norms As this case study illustrates, the concept of humility in Asian cultures may differ from that in Western cultures. Many Eastern cultures approach humility not merely as an understanding of personal limits, but as a way to let go of the self, understand one’s place in the larger scheme of existence, and connect with a greater reality. (In contrast, Western traditions, for they’re based in Abrahamic traditions, often conceptualize humility as submission to God.) Eastern traditions encourage adopting a particular perspective on life, focusing on understanding the small role one plays in a vast universe, appreciating others, and recognizing their inherent worth. For instance, in Buddhism, one of the elements of the eight-fold path is “right intention,” which involves freeing oneself from selfishness, partly achieved through humble thought.

Idea for Impact: Cultural sensitivity is essential to avoid unintentional offense. Interpreting sentiments and communication within the cultural and philosophical context of the individuals involved is crucial for effective cross-cultural understanding and respect.

The Deceptive Power of False Authority: A Case Study of Linus Pauling’s Vitamin C Promotion

May 2, 2024 By Nagesh Belludi Leave a Comment

The Allure of the Famous Word

The Deceptive Power of False Authority: A Case Study of Linus Pauling's Vitamin C Promotion In the 1970s and 1980s, Linus Pauling, the American chemist with not one but two Nobel Prizes to his name, started championing the extraordinary potential of mega-doses of Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) as a wide-ranging panacea—a solution to a myriad of ailments, in fact—from the common cold to cancer and even heart disease.

The world of medicine and science didn’t greet Pauling’s bold claims with open arms. Skepticism abounded, and rightly so. The reason? A scarcity of compelling scientific evidence to bolster his audacious assertions. Leading medical institutions turned a critical eye toward his ideas, raising ethical red flags. They feared that people might be swayed to forgo established medical treatments based solely on the strength of a seemingly authoritative endorsement of Pauling.

This controversy is a classic case in point of a brilliant person daring to traverse the boundaries of his expertise, venturing into unqualified territories. While a handful of studies explored the potential benefits, a universally accepted scientific consensus on the effectiveness of high-dose Vitamin C for these purposes remained frustratingly elusive. And even today, Pauling’s views on Vitamin C’s health benefits continue to spark fierce debates.

Truth Demands a Deeper Call

Make no mistake; Linus Pauling was a luminary in the realm of chemistry, but his credentials didn’t extend to the domain of medicine. This tale serves as a reminder that intelligence and judgment are not always cut from the same cloth. While Pauling’s claims may hold water in the world of chemistry, blindly accepting his assertions on Vitamin C would lead us down a path of fallacy – the “false appeal to authority,” or “Argument from Authority,” also known as “Argumentum ad Verecundiam.”

Celebrity endorsements, expert testimonies, and references to popular figures in non-expert fields can be a deceptive trap for those who unquestionably trust the statements of authorities. The assumption that truth is inherent in the words of a prominent figure, regardless of solid evidence or sound reasoning, undermines critical evaluation and neglects the necessity for substantial support.

Idea for Impact: Brilliance in one arena doesn’t guarantee infallibility across the board. Approach “expert” opinions with a critical eye, assessing them within the context of the evidence and rationale that underpin the argument. In the quest for understanding, always judge each assertion on its own merits. Context matters.

Tales vs. Truth & Anecdotal Evidence: The Case of Sports Illustrated Cover Jinx

April 11, 2024 By Nagesh Belludi Leave a Comment

Tales vs. Truth & Anecdotal Evidence: The Case of Sports Illustrated Cover Jinx Stories and anecdotes can wield considerable influence, often dished out as ‘compelling’ evidence to support specific claims and evoke strong emotional responses. However, as much as they can be persuasive and resonate deeply, their effectiveness is not without limitations.

Take, for instance, the Sports Illustrated (SI) Cover Jinx, a widely discussed superstition suggesting that athletes or teams gracing the magazine’s cover may experience a subsequent decline in performance or encounter some misfortune. Wikipedia maintains a long list of the teams and athletes who’ve been hit by the jinx—some managed to dodge it—since the magazine’s inception in 1954.

An oft-cited example is the August 31, 2015, issue of SI, which featured a cover photo of tennis superstar Serena Williams looking at the ball she’d just tossed in the air to serve. The headline reads, “All Eyes on Serena: The Slam.” No sooner than the issue hit the newsstands did Serena lose in the semifinals of the US Open, thus ending her bid to win a calendar-year Grand Slam.

Anecdotes are captivating because they provide concrete, relatable illustrations of abstract ideas, making them more engaging and memorable. However, anecdotes are inherently limited in their scope and representativeness. Just because something is true in one instance doesn’t mean it holds true universally. Anecdotes are susceptible to bias, selective memory, and cherry-picking.

There is no empirical evidence to support the existence of the Sports Illustrated Cover Jinx, yet the jinx has become a part of sports folklore and continues to be mentioned humorously by athletes, sports commentators, and fans alike. Various factors contribute to the jinx, including the fact that these athletes are already at their peak (Serena Williams was nearly 34 when featured on the SI cover,) and statistically, peak success can’t last forever.

Idea for Impact: Overgeneralization and drawing sweeping conclusions based on isolated examples can lead to erroneous beliefs and misguided actions. Always approach anecdotes critically and with a healthy dose of skepticism. When presented with anecdotal evidence, consider its relevance, cause-and-effect representativeness, and the possibility of alternative explanations. Isolated cases do not necessarily reflect broader truths.

Beyond the Illusion: The Barnum Effect and Personality Tests

November 30, 2023 By Nagesh Belludi Leave a Comment

Beyond the Illusion: The Barnum Effect and Personality Tests In 1948, the American psychologist Bertram Forer conducted a personality test with his students, after which he provided what he claimed were personalized personality descriptions based on their test scores. In reality, Forer handed out the same generic newspaper astrology column to all students; therefore his personality descriptions were applicable to the majority of people.

Surprisingly, Forer’s students found these vague descriptions to be incredibly personal and highly accurate. Forer compared this psychological phenomenon to the captivating showmanship of P.T. Barnum, whose acts and deceptions enthralled audiences by making them believe they were witnessing something truly extraordinary. This phenomenon became known as the “Barnum Effect.”

The Barnum Effect, also referred to as the Forer Effect, involves subjective personality validation. This effect helps explain why individuals readily embrace horoscopes, personality tests, and fortune-telling, even when these sources provide generalized, positive statements that appear tailored to them but, in reality, apply to a wide range of people.

Idea for Impact: Be wary of the innate human inclination to seek personal validation and meaning in the information you encounter

In the realm of personality tests, it’s crucial to exercise caution. Many widely used tests have notable limitations and lack substantial validation. Without being employed scientifically and within the appropriate context, along with a healthy dose of skepticism, personality tests may simply serve as enjoyable group activities. They are particularly good at initiating conversations, injecting a playful and light-hearted aspect into social interactions.

In a broader sense, it’s wise to be wary of anyone who promises swift psychological diagnoses. Watch out for charlatans, self-proclaimed psychics, dubious psychotherapists, and faith healers who assert they can unveil the depths of your psyche in a matter of minutes. Stay inquisitive, but discerning.

Shrinkflation: It’s All About How We Conceive the Changes We Perceive

October 27, 2023 By Nagesh Belludi Leave a Comment

Shrinkflation: It's All About How We Conceive the Changes We Perceive Shrinkflation is a pricing tactic where manufacturers covertly reduce the size or quantity of familiar products while keeping the package price the same, or even slyly increasing it. Shrinkflation is a subtle means for consumer goods producers to conceal a rise in unit prices by giving customers less product at the same cost. This strategy is frequently deployed during periods of inflation and impending economic downturns.

But why not simply raise the prices outright? Consumers are generally understanding of price hikes if they perceive them as reasonable. However, when it comes to products like food and shampoo, they might not fully comprehend the reasons behind these pricing adjustments. As they feel the economic pressure mounting, consumers tend to find shrinkflation and the preservation of familiar package prices more palatable than a direct price increase.

Cultural Differences and Detecting Deception

October 25, 2023 By Nagesh Belludi Leave a Comment

Cultural Differences and Detecting Deception Spotting a liar isn’t an exact science; factors like eye contact, direct versus indirect communication, and many of the frequently highlighted “sure signs” of a liar may not always hold up across different cultures.

If you’re seeking more reliable indicators to help you discern truth from fiction, here they are:

Inconsistent Stories: Liars often weave a web of contradictions, changing their narrative as they go. When the story keeps evolving, it’s a red flag.
Lack of Detail: Liars tend to avoid specifics, offering vague responses that leave you with more questions than answers.
Defensiveness: While a poker face can hide the truth, excessive defensiveness can signal deception. When confronted, liars may become overly protective of their secrets.

Idea for Impact: Cultural sensitivity is essential when navigating the complex realm of truth and deception.

Ethics Lessons From Akira Kurosawa’s ‘High and Low’

October 5, 2023 By Nagesh Belludi Leave a Comment

The celebrated Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa is known for crafting movies that grapple with moral dilemmas. In his highly regarded work, High and Low (1962,) a successful self-made millionaire faces a wrenching ethical conundrum: his son has been abducted, and he must give up everything he has worked hard for to secure the ransom. However, he soon discovers that the kidnapper mistakenly took his chauffeur’s son instead. The question now becomes: is the life of the worker’s child worth the same sacrifice as his own? In a powerful scene, the millionaire and the chauffeur lock eyes, and the viewers are left to ponder if all lives are equally valuable.

What makes this movie a standout is its portrayal of the intricacies involved in making difficult moral choices. Our conscience cannot always provide us with the necessary guidance to navigate the complex ethical issues we face in modern society, particularly when competing values and interests are at play. Ethical decisions are about more than just meeting a specific standard, as many dilemmas are so multifaceted that it’s difficult to distinguish good from evil or determine which choice is most worthy of preference.

The key takeaway is that tackling complicated moral problems requires continuous effort and investment in researching and contemplating the proper response. Seeking input from trusted colleagues who can provide a secure space to explore the nuances and implications of difficult decisions, particularly those you might not feel comfortable discussing openly due to societal pressures, is critical.

Labeling Damage

July 27, 2023 By Nagesh Belludi Leave a Comment

Labels not only stereotype individuals but also limit and stifle them. Even so-called positive labels like “little miss perfect” perpetuate harmful stereotypes and can be internalized. Labels create walls around people, making it difficult for them to break free from preconceived notions.

Instead of oversimplifying people’s traits and characteristics with labels, let’s celebrate individuality by avoiding labels altogether. Let’s embrace the complexity of each person and acknowledge their unique qualities.

Beyond Mansplaining’s Veil

July 13, 2023 By Nagesh Belludi Leave a Comment

“Mansplaining,” commonly associated with a condescending and chauvinistic attitude, traditionally refers to situations where men unnecessarily and patronizingly explain things to women, often silencing their voices.

However, the term “mansplaining” has been extensively used in recent years to the point where it sometimes carries connotations of “reverse sexism.” It’s often employed without carefully considering the validity of men’s opinions, resulting in the dismissal or belittlement of their arguments. It’s worth noting that both men and women can internalize sexist beliefs and attitudes due to societal conditioning.

While it’s true that many men exhibit patronizing and rude behavior, assuming that such mannerisms are exclusively a male trait is an oversimplification. Contempt can be seen across genders; it’s a flaw that goes beyond gender boundaries. Men interrupt and talk down to each other in debates. Some individuals, regardless of gender, treat everyone with the same interrupting and condescending tone—it’s simply their communication style. Therefore, the communication issue lies in “human-splaining,” and making generalizations solely based on gender is unfair and unproductive.

Furthermore, the term “mansplaining” is often carelessly used out of frustration and anger, becoming a convenient way to dismiss any man expressing an opinion or insisting on a viewpoint during a debate.

Idea for Impact: Let’s reserve the label for situations where it’s genuinely warranted and instead focus on addressing the underlying issue of unequal valuing of men’s and women’s words. Let’s examine entitlement and the impact of patriarchal structures. Engaging in productive dialogue is far more effective than resorting to gratuitous dismissals.

Biases

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Let’s Be Cautious Not to Impose Norms We Call Our Own

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The Allure of the Famous Word

Truth Demands a Deeper Call

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Idea for Impact: Be wary of the innate human inclination to seek personal validation and meaning in the information you encounter

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