Fear, morality, and embracing transgender individuals: why are we so afraid of people who are different?
By Lauro Amezcua Patino, MD.
As a psychiatrist, I often see how complicated human emotions are and how hard it is for people to understand and accept each other. One such issue that has garnered much attention in recent years is the fear and misunderstanding some individuals have toward transgender people. This dread may take the form of actions such as discrimination or even violence. To better comprehend these emotions and work towards a more inclusive society, we can look to The Beatles' wisdom and song, “Live and Let Live.”
The dread of people unlike us is a deeply rooted psychological phenomenon that has persisted throughout human history. This fear, which can extend to those who do not conform to traditional gender norms, can also be traced back to ethnogenetic factors that have shaped our understanding of ourselves and others.
Ethnogenetics and the Fear of the Unknown
Ethnogenetics studies how genetic differences and cultural factors work together to make different ethnic groups. Researchers in this field have found that genetic similarities within ethnic groups are often linked to a sense of shared identity. This can affect the formation of social bonds and the development of cultural norms.
From an evolutionary perspective, this preference for those who share our genetic and cultural background may have served as a survival mechanism. Early humans relied on their social groups for protection, food, and other resources, so forming solid bonds with those who were genetically similar may have increased the chances of survival for both individuals and the group as a whole.
However, this preference for those similar to us can also lead to a fear of different people. In some cases, this fear may stem from the belief that different people threaten the stability of our social group or the continuation of our cultural norms. This fear can then manifest in discrimination, prejudice, and even violence against those who do not conform to our expectations.
The Role of Cognitive Biases
Cognitive biases, in addition to ethnogenetic elements, also significantly contribute to the persistence of the fear of those who are different from us. One such bias is the “us versus them” mindset, which leads us to see the world in black-and-white terms and perceives those who are different as threats to our own way of life.
Another cognitive bias that can contribute to our fear of people who are different is the “confirmation bias,” which leads us to seek out and prioritize information that confirms our existing beliefs while ignoring or downplaying contradictory evidence. This bias can cause us to hold onto stereotypes and prejudiced beliefs about others, making it difficult for us to challenge our assumptions and develop a more accurate understanding of those who are different from us.
Fear and Misunderstanding
Fear of transgender people, or “transphobia,” can stem from a variety of factors, including a lack of understanding, discomfort with change, ethnogentics, cognitive biases, or the belief that transgender individuals challenge traditional gender norms. This fear is often rooted in a need to categorize people and impose our moral beliefs onto others.
Unfortunately, this fear can be harmful not only to transgender individuals but also to society as a whole. Discrimination and prejudice can lead to increased rates of mental health issues, substance abuse, and suicide among transgender people. It also makes it harder for society to accept differences and grow into a more empathetic and understanding place.
Imposing Morality
The imposition of one’s own moral beliefs on others is a typical response to fear and misunderstanding. This can manifest in many ways, such as supporting discriminatory policies, engaging in hateful rhetoric, or even committing acts of violence against those who do not conform to our own moral code.
However, it is essential to recognize that morality is a personal and evolving concept. What may be morally acceptable to one person may not be for another, and this diversity in thought should be celebrated rather than suppressed. By imposing our morality onto others, we create divisions and perpetuate stereotypes, making it even more challenging to foster understanding and compassion.
The Beatles and “Live and Let Live”
"Live and Let Live," a song by the Beatles, tells us to accept and respect each other's differences and to let other people live their lives the way they want to without forcing our own beliefs or judgments on them. This message is particularly relevant when it comes to understanding and accepting transgender individuals.
Through the practice of “living and letting live,” we can work towards creating a society where transgender people are not only accepted but celebrated for their unique identities and experiences. With this view, we can question our own biases and prejudices and work to make the world more accepting and kind.
Overcoming Fear and Embracing Diversity
While ethnogenetic factors and cognitive biases may play a role in our fear of those who are different, we must recognize that we are not powerless in the face of these influences. We can work toward a more accepting and empathetic society by becoming more aware of our biases and taking steps to fight them.
Education and exposure to diverse perspectives are vital to overcoming the fear of people who are different. By learning about the experiences of others, we can begin to see the commonalities that unite us rather than the differences that divide us. Engaging in open and respectful dialogue with those with different backgrounds or identities can help us develop a more nuanced understanding of the world and its people.
The fear of people who are different is a complex issue that has roots in ethnogenetics, cognitive biases, and sociocultural factors. By being aware of these factors and taking steps to test our assumptions, we can create a more fair, kind, and welcoming community where everyone can thrive, no matter where they come from or what they look like.