Cultural bias profoundly influences our perception of nobility and individual worth. Defined as “the phenomenon of interpreting and judging phenomena by standards inherent to one’s own culture,” cultural bias shapes how we view actions, events, and people. Let’s explore this concept with some concrete examples.
One notable instance is the United States' war on terror, particularly its military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. In March 2017, a US-led coalition operation in Mosul, Iraq, resulted in the death of 200 civilians following over 500 aerial bombardments. While the US government downplayed civilian casualties, emphasizing the targeting of suspected terrorists, local Iraqi residents saw the bombings as a horrific act by unwelcome forces. Here, cultural bias determined the interpretation of the event: noble in the eyes of the US military, but deviant from the perspective of Iraqi civilians. The absolute facts remain—people died, and bombs were dropped—but the nobility of the action is entirely subjective, shaped by cultural perception.
Cultural bias is pervasive. Consider the psychological comparison between active soldiers and inmates. At first glance, the notion might spark outrage, but let's delve deeper. Both groups operate within strict hierarchies: soldiers have ranks such as sergeants and captains, while inmates have similar structures with officers and wardens. Both environments involve controlled routines and restricted movements. Soldiers in combat face extreme violence and may be forced to kill in self-defense. Inmates in violent prisons experience similar threats. Psychologically, the environments are comparable. The distinction arises from the perceived nobility of their roles—soldiers are seen as protectors, while inmates are viewed through the lens of their crimes. Nobility, therefore, is a social construct influenced by cultural bias.
When soldiers return home, they are often celebrated and provided with resources such as healthcare, employment preferences, and discounts. In contrast, ex-convicts face significant barriers: finding employment is challenging, housing options are limited, and access to healthcare is often restricted. Society views soldiers as heroes and ex-cons as irredeemable criminals. This dichotomy is rooted in cultural bias, which stems from the Puritan foundations of our criminal justice system. Such biases contribute to high recidivism rates, as societal barriers prevent successful reintegration.
The United States is a divided nation, with significant disparities in wealth and opportunity. Socioeconomic classism exacerbates these divisions. Bridging the cultural divide is crucial for evolving into a more just and prosperous society. Cultural bias plays out in various ways, creating systemic injustices that impact individuals' lives.
To move forward, we must acknowledge and address cultural biases. By doing so, we can create a society that values every individual equally, regardless of their background or circumstances. Only then can we hope to bridge the gaps and achieve true justice and prosperity for all.
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