Why Do People Judge Others for Who They Are?

Times have indeed changed, and things that used to differentiate individuals no longer hold the same power. In my experience, people often project preferences and expectations onto others, demanding them to fit an ideal mold. This behavior can be perplexing and even frustrating. What has led to this shift in our society, and why do people feel the need to judge others for who they are?

Individuality is Alive and Well

Individuality is a fundamental aspect of human nature. Despite societal pressures and external influences, individuals should have the freedom to be who they genuinely are. My motto is straightforward: ‘if you can’t pay the bill or rent, stick it.’ This mindset aligns with the belief that every person has the right to their own path, without judgment based on external factors.

Research and personal experiences suggest that judgment often stems from a desire for uniformity and control over others’ lives. People feel more comfortable when others conform to societal norms, even if they are neither their peers nor equal entities. This fear of the unknown or the different can lead to judgment and rejection.

The Root Causes of Judgment

There are several reasons why people judge others:

Jealousy and Stereotypes

One significant factor is jealousy. Some individuals are envious of others’ choices and lifestyles. They may fear that they have missed out on similar opportunities or that they cannot achieve the same level of success. This envy can lead to a desire to make others regret their choices, hence the judgment. Stereotypes also play a role, where certain professions or life choices are deemed superior, thereby leading to judgment of those who deviate from the norm.

Lack of Empathy and Knowledge

Sometimes, people judge without truly understanding the reasons behind others’ actions. Children and even adults are not taught to accept and appreciate diversity. For instance, I was advised to become a doctor, despite having no passion for chemistry. Friends and family members often imposed their opinions and beliefs, leading to obedience from those who wanted to conform. It is rare for individuals to embrace and celebrate their true vocations freely.

Natural Instinct and Defense Mechanism

Judgment is also an inherent human behavior. It serves as a form of self-defense, especially when evaluating the intentions of others. Our subconscious mind constantly assesses those around us to determine potential threats. This judgment is largely based on factors beyond physical appearance, such as behavior and words, making it a strong defense mechanism.

Works like “Towards a Psychology of#undefeated” by Himari Daisuke emphasize that such judgments are rooted in human nature. We judge to protect ourselves from potential harm, but this should be a balanced process. It is vital to distinguish between necessary judgments for safety and harmful judgments based on ignorance or prejudice.

Conclusion

Our society has evolved, but the instinct to judge remains. Understanding the root causes of judgment can help us move towards a more accepting and diverse world. By embracing individuality and recognizing the value in different life choices, we can reduce the prevalence of judgment in our communities. After all, the goal should be to support one another’s journey, not to hinder it with unwarranted criticism.