Why do so many people feel the need to make fun of and judge others?
This question crosses my mind daily. I wonder why we, as humans, feel the need to judge and degrade others.
It’s human nature to compare ourselves to others, whether it’s to our family members, peers or even celebrities we see in the media. We base our judgments of ourselves and others on these comparisons.
Judging others sometimes gives people a sense of prestige because demeaning others can create a false sense of security and identity.
When it comes down to it, people are different. No two people are completely alike. We need to accept these differences and stop judging people. It is hurtful to them and makes the people ridiculing them look bad.
Even if one does not verbalize their judgments, it does not mean their insensitive thoughts are acceptable. It goes with the saying: If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.
I’m not saying that I never make fun of people. In fact, I find myself judging others more often than not.
Due to this realization, I made it my New Year’s Resolution to try and stop judging others, especially people I haven’t met. I think it’s unfair for me to draw conclusions and opinions about others without knowing them.
While walking on campus, it’s easy to look at the person walking past you and make quick judgments. These judgments are usually based upon their outward appearance.
This leads to the notion that looks do not make a person. So what if the girl is wearing a crazy outfit or if that boy has green hair? Does this make them a freak and a target for ridicule?
The answer is absolutely not.
What will it take for people to accept others for who they are and not make fun of them simply because they are different from themselves or what society portrays to us as normal? This question may never be answered.
I hear people say things about others all the time without consequences and this encourages them to continue getting their laughs through other peoples’ pain. It’s hard to listen to, but it can be stopped.
As young adults, it’s our duty to make a conscience effort to be more accepting towards others’ differences, especially at college. For many, college is an outlet for self-expression and the beginning of the rest of their lives.
Who are we to judge how others act, look, dress or who they hang out with? To make fun of a peer is immature and shows people around you that you are close-minded.
All in all, I hope that more people this year start out with open minds and reduce the amount they talk about, make fun of, and judge others. Once more and more people begin to do this, it will result in a happier life for all.
Always remember, treat others how you want to be treated.
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