"A Class Divided" is a thought-provoking documentary that explores the profound impact of discrimination and prejudice on individuals and society. This essay provides a summary of the documentary, highlighting its key themes, lessons, and the lasting significance of its message. Through an experiment conducted by teacher Jane Elliott, the film offers a powerful glimpse into the effects of discrimination and the role of social psychology in shaping our perceptions and behaviors.
Summary of the Documentary
In 1968, in the aftermath of the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., Jane Elliott, a third-grade teacher in Riceville, Iowa, devised an experiment to teach her students about discrimination and prejudice. Dividing her class into two groups based on eye color, she declared that blue-eyed children were superior to brown-eyed children and treated them accordingly. Overnight, the once-harmonious classroom transformed into a divided space, with the blue-eyed children exhibiting superiority and the brown-eyed children experiencing discrimination.
The documentary "A Class Divided" chronicles this experiment and its impact on the students. Through interviews and footage from both the original experiment and a follow-up session years later, the film captures the emotional toll that discrimination takes on individuals, regardless of age. It illustrates how prejudices can quickly take hold and shape behavior, leading to a perpetuation of stereotypes and biases.
The experiment's effects were profound. The blue-eyed children, who were assigned a superior status, exhibited increased confidence and dominance, often belittling their brown-eyed counterparts. Conversely, the brown-eyed children, labeled as inferior, displayed signs of self-doubt, diminished academic performance, and even internalized the negative stereotypes thrust upon them.
As the experiment progressed, Elliott switched the roles, making the brown-eyed children the privileged group. This shift exposed the blue-eyed children to discrimination and highlighted the arbitrary nature of assigning value based on physical characteristics. This experience led to a heightened awareness and empathy among the students, allowing them to reflect on the destructive power of prejudice.
Lessons and Significance
"A Class Divided" offers several important lessons that resonate far beyond the walls of a classroom. It reveals how easily discrimination can take root and perpetuate harmful divisions within society. The film exposes the psychological and emotional impact of prejudice on individuals, emphasizing the importance of fostering empathy and understanding to counteract these destructive forces.
Moreover, the documentary showcases the role of social psychology in shaping our behavior. The power dynamics that emerged within the classroom illustrate the influence of perceived superiority or inferiority on individual attitudes and actions. By understanding these dynamics, we can become more conscious of our own biases and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
The lasting significance of "A Class Divided" lies in its ability to spark conversations about discrimination and social justice. The experiment conducted by Jane Elliott continues to inspire educators and individuals worldwide to address issues of prejudice and privilege. It serves as a powerful tool to promote empathy, challenge societal norms, and encourage critical thinking about the impact of discrimination on individuals and communities.
Conclusion
"A Class Divided" stands as a timeless documentary that examines the profound effects of discrimination and prejudice. Through Jane Elliott's eye-opening experiment, the film highlights the destructive power of discrimination while emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding. By delving into the realm of social psychology, it prompts viewers to reflect on their own biases and actively work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. "A Class Divided" serves as a testament to the transformative potential of education and the ongoing fight against discrimination.