Values in Action – Open-mindedness
In the news: Do Social Psychologists walk the walk?
I love the social sciences. Understanding consumer behavior has been part of the core of my field of expertise in marketing for over 20 years. However, one thing I can personally attest to is the liberal basis of many of the scientists within this field.
So when I came across an article highlighting the lack of diversity and the skew towards liberal basis among psychological scientists, they had my attention.
The fact that only 6% of the respondents described themselves as conservative confirmed my personal experience. In addition, the study revealed that conservative psychologists “hide their views because the field is hostile to their values.”
Worse still, “liberal respondents were more likely to say they would discriminate against psychologists who displayed clear conservative views in the context of a paper or grant review, a symposium invitation, and faculty hiring.”
For conservative social scientists, like me, this is a serious concern that needs to be addressed.
But first, I applaud the industry for studying this issue internally. Having two of its own scientists, Yoel Inbar and Joris Lammers, study this bias takes courage and a willingness to look at oneself in a new light.
In other words, embracing the value of open-mindedness within the circle of its members is a positive first step.
As a differentiating value, open-mindedness means willingness to consider new and different ideas or opinions.
Often this value is associated with looking outward, through a different lens. But the research of Inbar & Lammers is a terrific example of applying this value looking inward.
Of special note, it’s interesting that the findings start with two important values embraced by most psychological scientists: tolerance and fairness. Yet many liberal scientists are clearly violating these values.
As highlighted in this article:
“Several of the commentaries raise serious questions about how ideology might be shaping the issues and questions that social psychologists systematically choose – and do not choose – to explore.”
My hope is that psychological scientists continue to embrace the value of open-mindedness to ensure their foundational values of tolerance and fairness truly shine.
What are your reactions to this value in action?
How can the value of open-mindedness help you develop your differentiation?
Today’s value was selected from the “Diversity-Flexibility” category, based on the e-book Developing Your Differentiating Values.
