About this Video
- Video Title: How We Form Opinions
- Channel: vlogbrothers
- Speakers: John Green
- Duration: 00:09:24
Introduction
This vlogbrothers video explores how opinions are formed, using the historical example of the adoption (or rejection) of variolation (early inoculation against smallpox) in 18th-century Boston and London. The video argues that the acceptance or rejection of variolation was less about the procedure's merit and more about pre-existing biases towards the people advocating for it.
Key Takeaways
- The Variolation Example: The adoption of variolation in Boston and London highlights how pre-existing biases towards the advocates of a new idea heavily influenced its acceptance or rejection, rather than the evidence itself. In Boston, it was seen as an anti-elite practice, while in London, it was embraced by the elite.
- The Power of Pre-existing Biases: People's feelings about the advocates for variolation (e.g., Puritan minister vs. aristocrats) strongly shaped their opinions on the procedure itself. They often "backfilled" reasons to justify their pre-existing biases.
- The Importance of Keeping Issues Out of "Fight Territory": The video suggests that keeping issues out of the realm of political and ideological battles allows for more rational consideration of evidence and progress on beneficial technologies (e.g., heat pumps). However, issues like electric vehicles and vaccines have become highly politicized, hindering objective evaluation.
- The Danger of Tribalism: The politicization of vaccines illustrates the negative consequences of tribalism. The video argues that while advocating for vaccines is morally sound, this advocacy has inadvertently turned it into a tribal issue, reducing uptake among certain groups.
- Fear of Outsiders: The video emphasizes the enduring and powerful influence of fear of outsiders in shaping opinions, highlighting its role in the historical and contemporary contexts.
