Читать книгу The Communication Playbook - Teri Kwal Gamble - Страница 35

We often assume that communication is purposeful and that we communicate only because we want to. Although this sometimes is true, it is also true that sometimes we communicate without any awareness of doing so—and just as often, even without wanting to.

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Whenever we are involved in an interaction, we respond in some way. Even if we choose not to respond verbally, even if we maintain absolute silence and attempt not to move a muscle, our lack of response is itself a response; it constitutes a message, influences others, and communicates. We can never stop behavior—because behavior has no opposite. No matter how hard we try, we cannot not communicate, because all behavior is communication and therefore is a message.

Exploring Diversity

Focus on Hate

Years ago, researcher Gordon Allport wrote the following in his now classic The Nature of Prejudice:

 See that man over there?

 Yes.

 Well, I hate him.

 But you don’t know him.

 That’s why I hate him.

Although Allport wrote this long ago, his observations remain true today and are being magnified by social media. To what extent do you believe that enhanced understanding can help resolve this? Why does a lack of knowledge or familiarity help breed hate? Why might some people experience “hate” when encountering individuals from a new or unfamiliar culture or group?