The Rebound Effect and Releasing Prejudiced Thinking

What's up God's Children,


-->The Fact: There was a Daily Show skit presented by the Black correspondent, Larry Wilmore that drew parallels between stereotypes of “Blackness” and John McCain as the presidential candidate. His disorganized campaign, prison record (i.e. Prisoner Of War or POW), anger at “The Man” (i.e. media), showing up late (i.e. CP or colored person time) or not at all for David Letterman, and how he’s more like the Black candidate than Obama was.
My Opinion: I think it shows an interesting look into the ignorance of stereotypes. The parallels drawn between a McCain's scattered campaign and the concept of being "black" in America is uncanny. Sketches like this that make fun of the stupidity of stereotypes and labels sort of serve to reduce the power they have on our minds. You got to understand that Americans will never be color blind, culturally speaking. Psychology studies have examined the rebound effect which is when suppressing prejudiced thinking can cause an effect where there is more prejudice released later. Releasing our thoughts on racial issues reduces prejudice much more than keeping it in. Why not embrace our differences and enjoy a good laugh about the foolishness that some narrow-minded Americans still believe. The show (i.e. Daily Show) makes fun of blacks, women, old white male bureaucrats, funny looking British guys and Jews all the same.

Peace

Angels Book Series by D. C. Cowan