Beyond Intolerance: Unveiling the Psychology of Bigotry

We feel security when surrounded by others that share beliefs. We flock together in sameness. And we naturally fear differences; they don’t easily fit into our schemas of life. To escape these tendencies, we must fight bigotry, examining the errors of our perceptions. These tendencies of seeking sameness and avoiding differences become the foundation for discrimination, violence and wars. An ethical approach demands we scrutinize these tendencies of division, reaching beyond bigoted impulses, and creating a better world.

More important than the political issues that separate one group from another is the end result of all the bickering. When someone believes that their beliefs, culture, or background is superior to others, their self-righteousness oozes out suffocating growth. Ethical leaders should primarily seek greater cohesion of the people they lead, rather than advancing one ideology over another. Sadly, some use the pedestal of their office to enhance divides and magnify fears, uniting majorities to oppress the minority. This is the bigoted corruption that destroys people.

Bigots Refuse to Hear Opposing Arguments

Alfred Adler warns that these people “talk about this openness and reasonableness, however, purely to reinforce their isolated position; they are in fact thoroughly bigoted, and it is very difficult to have any influence on them” (Adler, 1927). Caroll Tavris and Elliot Aronson wrote “once people acquire a prejudice, therefore, it’s hard to dislodge.” They continue, “most people will put a lot of mental energy into preserving their prejudice rather than having to change it, often by waving away disconfirming evidence as exceptions that prove the rule” (Tavris & Aronson, 2015).

The same principle applies to relationships on a smaller scale. The goal isn’t to get as much as possible at great cost to the partner. Ultimately, this path destroys trust, and builds resentments. The relationship flourishes when seen as a whole, respecting both parties wants and needs, seeking win-win solutions whenever possible, and compromising when differences can’t be mutually resolved. This approach, overtime, satisfies more needs for both participants in the relationship.

Hate Speech and Bigotry

While we hold implicit biases, and make unconscious and prejudice associations, sometimes we allow our bigoted believes devolve into something more sinister. A more vile expression of bigotry is seen in hate speech. The internet provides an unlimited platform for damaging attacks. “Hate speech is defined as bias-motivated, hostile, malicious speech aimed at a person or a group of people because of some of their actual or perceived innate characteristics” (Cohen‐Almagor, 2011). The bigoted fool does not only hold unshakable beliefs of superiority but feels self-righteously endowed to speak with hatred with an intent to hurt others.

Life Complexity

I don’t like the concept of tolerating differences; I much prefer embracing differences. We spend too much time debating with closed minds, unwilling to expand views beyond our silly little selves. Even suggesting to some that there are alternative views will send the diehard bigot into a tizzy. Life is complex. Usually multiple views are because an issue has significant trade-offs without a clearly defined “better” way. But in the angry exchange of words, we blind ourselves to those hurt by following one path over the another. We pretend that one political view benefits all; when usually there are clear winners and losers.

Blogger and Philosopher Dan Garro wisely suggests that “the more perspectives we understand, the more ways in which we are able to see something, the more we will understand what that thing is and its role in human life, in the human world” (Garro, 2021).

Associated Concepts

Complementary Stereotyping: These stereotypes seem positive but reinforce harmful roles and limit individuals’ potential.
Contact Hypothesis: This concept posits that intergroup contact can reduce prejudice and improve relations.
Implicit Biases: These biases, influenced by culture and experience, can lead to harmful stereotypes, but can be reduced through awareness and empathetic perspective-taking.
Empowerment Theory: This theory in community psychology emphasizes the importance of increasing individuals’ and communities’ control over their lives. It focuses on promoting social change and addressing power imbalances to enhance well-being and social justice.
Minimal Group Paradigm (MGP): This theory explores the roots of intergroup conflict. It reveals that even arbitrary group distinctions can trigger ingroup favoritism and discrimination.
Lawrence Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral Development: This theory outlines six stages, divided into pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional levels, shaping individuals’ moral reasoning and ethical decision-making through cognitive growth and societal interactions.

A Few Words by Psychology Fanatic

The frailties of the mind intrude on logic. We grasp beliefs and refuse to update our belief as new evidence flows. We blind ourselves to contrary information while embracing flimsy supports. Moreover, we often support damaging ideologies long after the evidence has unveiled the damage of those beliefs. Proudly, and stupidly we march forward to the edge of the cliff.

Different cultures, beliefs and ideals create richness in the world. We can only discover the true beauty of others when we open your hearts and minds—and become a student of humanity, observing new constructions of reality, a different angle of view, and an expanding understanding of this beautiful life.

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

References:

Adler, Alfred (1927/2009). Understanding Human Nature: The Psychology of Personality. Oneworld Publications; 3rd edition. ISBN-10: 1578989841
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Cohen‐Almagor, R. (2011). Fighting Hate and Bigotry on the Internet. Policy & Internet, 3(3). DOI: 10.2202/1944-2866.1059
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Garro, D. (2021). Perspective—In Pursuit of Truth. Do Better With Dan. Published: 1-14-2021; Retrieved: 2-17-2021. Website: https://dobetterwithdan.wordpress.com/2021/01/14/perspective-in-pursuit-of-truth/
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Tavris, Carol; Aronson, Elliot (2015). Mistakes Were Made (but Not by Me): Why We Justify Foolish Beliefs, Bad Decisions, and Hurtful Acts. Mariner Books; Revised, New edition edition. ISBN-10: 0547416032 APA Record: 2007-07067-000
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