Module 2 - Antirumours: concepts and principles
Before we begin to define the principles and methodology of the antirumours strategy, we must examine the concepts of stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination and their theoretical basis. There are many lines of research into the nature, origins, and consequences of these concepts. Current theories in the field of social psychology emphasize the multifaceted nature of their roots comprising cognitive, emotional, and social components. To be rigorous and effective when implementing an antirumours strategy, we must learn from the various disciplines that have expanded the understanding of not only the origins of rumours, but strategies for their successful elimination. We also need to acknowledge that the antirumours strategy arose within a specific socio-cultural context and its approach is obviously marked by its Western perspective, whereas stereotypes, prejudices and rumours are present in all societies. They are part of the human condition, but their learning process is culturally specific.
We can however identify five main features that are common to, or necessary for, designing and implementing successful strategies. Specific local contexts may require that the emphasis of the strategy lies in one area or another, but this “ideal” list of elements should be found in any antirumours strategy.
- Political commitment
- Engagement and participation: a strategy owned by the whole city
- Attracting and seducing, rather than blaming, the “ambivalent” majority
- Creativity at all levels: the strategy’s core identity
- Rigour, results and sustainability: much more than spreading antirumors data
Next, please take the time to familiarise yourself with pages 13-20 of the Antirumours handbook.
Take some minutes to consider the following questions which may help you identify areas to address:
- Do you know the difference between stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination?
- Which steps could you take to ensure the process involves creativity?
- How could you ensure the strategy is owned by the whole city with a joint commitment?
What is discrimination?
- (1)An unjustified negative behaviour towards a person or group based on their group belonging
- Beliefs we hold about the characteristics of a specific group, especially those characteristics that differentiate from other groups
- Unjustified and mostly negative attitudes towards an out-group or its members
Discrimination is a serious problem which can affect many areas of a person’s life (work, education, health or access to housing among many others). There is a wide variety of categories based on which people might be discriminated against, including ethnicity (racism), place of origin (xenophobia), religion (islamophobia, anti-Semitism, etc.), gender, sexual orientation, age, social status and profession.
4. Which is the main focus group of the antirumours strategy?
- Those who have strong negative opinions on diversity
- Those who have strong positive opinions on diversity
- (1)The majority of those residing in our societies
The antirumours strategy should be about attracting the majority and increasing their capacity to stop reinforcing the spirals of rumours. It is also about making people aware of the negative consequences of their prejudice and encouraging them to be more proactive in recognising and reducing them.
