The Psychology Behind Quick Judgment

In a world where every individual strives to assert their uniqueness, judgments about others acquire a special power. We often judge those around us not so much based on objective facts as through deep psychological processes embedded in our emotional foundation. In many ways, this judgment is dictated by pride—a desire to elevate oneself by criticizing others’ actions and shortcomings. People inadvertently isolate themselves within their own evaluations, examining even those close to them as if conducting a complex scientific experiment in which every flaw becomes sharply defined.

Moreover, our perception is shaped by pre-existing assumptions, often reinforced by societal stereotypes or rumors. This mechanism allows us to form opinions about people even before we encounter them, frequently leading to erroneous and hasty conclusions. Such habit provides a sense of certainty and spares us the need to delve into the complex nuances of human psychology.

Finally, the mechanism of self-justification also plays an important role. When we focus on the shortcomings of others, we manage to hide our own mistakes by shifting attention to external “problems.” This enables us to feel righteous and even justify our own actions. Understanding these complex and interconnected processes helps us view the phenomenon of judgment from a new perspective and prompts us to consider how important it is to pay attention to ourselves. In conditions of constant social pressure and expectations, it is essential to learn how to see past biased opinions to the true motives and individuality of each person.

Why is it so easy for people to pass judgment on others, and what psychological mechanisms lie behind it?

People often pass judgment on others because this phenomenon arises from a combination of internal emotional and psychological mechanisms. First, as noted in one source, judgment serves as an expression of pride. In the text from file 738_3689.txt it is stated:

"Our own speculations about a person, erroneous and shaky, based not so much on facts as on our personal attitude toward him—whether sympathy or antipathy—we assert as reality. Deep down, considering ourselves infallible analysts of others' virtues and shortcomings, we describe another person's character as a scientist would describe an infusoria observed under a microscope. Judgment is one expression of pride, a passion that allows the insignificant to defame others while admiring themselves. Often, people gather together solely for the purpose of judgment. How their faces light up, how their eyes burn with excitement when they speak of human weaknesses or vices!"
(source: 738_3689.txt)

Second, the mechanism of passing judgment is formed through a person’s readiness to operate on pre-existing assumptions. From file 1357_6781.txt we read:

"The apostle prevents such bewilderment by saying something like: how could you not know! There is no effort required to know. Some people's sins precede them, the news of their deeds goes before them, and even before you see one of them face to face, you might already be aware, for example, that he is impure in heart and body, unclean at hand, unclean of tongue, and so on. And this preconceived notion will guide you in pronouncing judgment about him, whether he is worthy or not. All that remains is for you to verify if it truly is as it appears. And the judgment will determine itself."
(source: 1357_6781.txt)

This passage emphasizes that when a person already holds a predetermined notion of another’s weaknesses, it significantly simplifies the process of passing judgment. Such biased assumptions are often formed under the influence of public opinion or rumors, allowing one to feel a superficial certainty in their analysis of others.

Finally, it is important to note that the mechanism of self-justification also plays a crucial role. As mentioned in the material from file 72_356.txt, people sometimes use passing judgment as a way to justify their own actions or even their participation in broader social processes. This mechanism lets them shift focus from their own responsibilities to the “moral deficiencies” of others, thereby reinforcing a sense of personal righteousness.
(source: 72_356.txt)

Thus, the ease with which people pass judgment on others is due to a combination of factors including pride, prejudiced assumptions, and the self-justification mechanism. These psychological processes enable us to evaluate others more quickly and simply, often without paying sufficient attention to the depth and nuances of personality.

Supporting citation(s):
"Our own speculations about a person, erroneous and shaky, based not so much on facts as on our personal attitude toward him—whether sympathy or antipathy—we assert as reality. Deep down, considering ourselves infallible analysts of others' virtues and shortcomings, we describe another person's character as a scientist would describe an infusoria observed under a microscope. Judgment is one expression of pride, a passion that allows the insignificant to defame others while admiring themselves. Often, people gather together solely for the purpose of judgment. How their faces light up, how their eyes burn with excitement when they speak of human weaknesses or vices!" (source: 738_3689.txt)

"The apostle prevents such bewilderment by saying something like: how could you not know! There is no effort required to know. Some people's sins precede them, the news of their deeds goes before them, and even before you see one of them face to face, you might already be aware, for example, that he is impure in heart and body, unclean at hand, unclean of tongue, and so on. And this preconceived notion will guide you in pronouncing judgment about him, whether he is worthy or not. All that remains is for you to verify if it truly is as it appears. And the judgment will determine itself." (source: 1357_6781.txt)

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