Perceiving Through Bias: How Expectations Distort Communication
Prejudiced expectations and stereotypes serve as a kind of "perception filter" through which we interpret the information we receive, even if it contradicts our beliefs. This filter not only distorts perception but also prevents us from hearing and objectively evaluating the position of our interlocutor. As stated in one of the sources:
"Most cultural stereotypes emerge, ... Ultimately, prejudiced expectations form a perception filter that hinders objective perception of the surrounding world." (source: link txt)
Another source emphasizes that even if the interlocutor offers objective arguments, they are often rejected if they do not fit into the already established system of views:
"In psychology, it is known that 'communication presupposes the ability of the interlocutors to hear each other.' ... Thus, stereotypes and prejudiced expectations form a perception filter that rejects objective arguments that do not agree with the speaker's preconceived notions." (source: link txt)
Thus, when we communicate, our own attitudes and expectations automatically filter out information that does not correspond to our beliefs, leading to a distorted perception of the interlocutor and hindering genuine mutual understanding. This makes the exchange of ideas and comments difficult, as we pay less attention to arguments that do not match what we already expect to hear.