Color Blind Thinking is a Choice

Many still prefer to view things strictly black-and-white in a world filled with complexities, nuances, and shades of gray. Whether in politics, relationships, or social issues, this binary mindset simplifies decision-making and reinforces personal beliefs.

However, this approach often ignores the richness of diversity and the depth of understanding that comes with seeing the full spectrum of possibilities. Being open-minded, I have been blessed for 78 years to see the good, exciting, growth, and destruction caused by being blind. So why do we choose to be color blind in a figurative sense, demanding that everything be either right or wrong, good or bad, black or white?

Here are ten reasons why we fall into this trap.

1. Simplicity Is Comforting

Life is complicated, and thinking in black-and-white terms provides a comforting escape from the discomfort of uncertainty. It offers perceptively clear answers, making the world seem more predictable and manageable, providing a sense of reassurance and emotional comfort.

These perceptions often prevent individuals from moving out of their comfort zones and growing personally or socially, making us vulnerable to the whims of those who wish to manipulate and take advantage of every situation.

2. Avoiding Cognitive Dissonance

When faced with conflicting information or viewpoints, choosing one extreme and rejecting the other is easier than wrestling with ambiguity. Black-and-white thinking helps people avoid the discomfort of questioning their own beliefs.

Beliefs must be challenged regularly because society changes and businesses evolve, providing a vast canvas for growth, joy, and excitement as we move forward. Change is not an evil concept but rather the key to moving forward.

3. Perceived Emotional Safety

Nuance can be unsettling. If something is either “all good” or “all bad,” we don’t have to deal with the emotional complexity of moral dilemmas or gray areas. Yet, I am sorry the world does confront us with ethical dilemmas that must be faced, not hidden under the rug.

Hiding yourself in a position of perceived emotional safety has a cost. Unfortunately, it is for others in society that are becoming disenfranchised, demeaned, and forced to face the reality of their poor existence while the rich hide.

4. Groupthink and Belonging

People are drawn to communities that reinforce their views. Defining issues in black and white strengthens group identity, making it easier to distinguish “us” from “them.” Having written about this many times, I sometimes feel like a broken record.

Yes, there is comfort in groups with similar culture, language, skin color, and monetary status, but this also prohibits the growth of diversity and broader spread of wealth. Currently, 47 and Musk are demonstrating this by creating chaos and demanding loyalty without any return, which will drive our society into further complexity and confusion.

5. Media and Social Influence

News headlines, social media debates, and political rhetoric often frame issues in binary terms because extremes drive engagement and ratings. This reinforces the habit of seeing things in stark contrast rather than as a spectrum.

I find the term “objective news” has become a buzz phrase and is not worth the airtime or marketing it receives. People are looking for alternatives, and with social media, some are dangerous and evil, so whether we like it or not, we must become effective critical thinking people.

6. Fear of Being Wrong

Admitting that there are shades of gray means acknowledging the possibility of being mistaken. Many prefer to cling to one side of an issue rather than entertain multiple perspectives. Anyone who has read any of my articles knows that I firmly believe that allowing ourselves and others to fail and LEARN from that failure is critical for mental and emotional health. It is the key to growth and balance.

7. Perceived Moral Certainty

People often see the world in black and white because they believe it aligns with moral principles. A binary approach makes distinguishing “right” from “wrong” easier without navigating complex ethical considerations.

Sorry, but this is wishful thinking. Life has always been faced with moral complexity and uncertainty, and as we have expanded our minds, technology, careers, and personal lives, hiding from it has become impossible without severe mental damage. Hiding behind some outdated laws, creating newer restrictions, or finding ways to marginalize others only puts a small band aid on and an open gaping wound.

8. Perceived Efficiency in Decision-Making

Gray areas take time and thought to navigate. Quick black-and-white judgments are more efficient in fast-paced environments, even if they oversimplify reality. They also turn others into objects of manipulation and generate an overreaching control in business, life, and relationships.

I have worked with several CEOs whose management style created chaos and confusion while making everything black and white. So, the decisions were simple, but they were failures in my mind. In every case, the companies failed.

9. Historical and Cultural Conditioning

Many societies are structured around binary oppositions, such as good vs. evil, success vs. failure, and right vs. wrong. These conditionings shape the way people interpret new information. Do there need to be boundaries? Yes. However, it is wrong when conditioning is used to manipulate and control people. Teach them to think about what they hear, see, and learn so they can make intelligent decisions.

10. The Illusion of Control

Seeing the world in black and white gives people a sense of control over uncertainty. If everything is clearly defined, it’s easier to make sense of unpredictable situations even though the presented facts are exaggerated or false.

There have been so many instances in the last 60 days where we can see how the government is trying to serve the public. Very few politicians in either party listen to or even think the same way as their constituents.

Conclusion

While black-and-white thinking offers simplicity and security, it often limits our ability to understand and connect with others. The world is filled with complexity, and embracing the full range of perspectives allows for greater growth, empathy, and innovation. Choosing to see in color — acknowledging the shades of gray — opens the door to deeper understanding and meaningful dialogue.

As a Protopian optimist, I will always believe that humanity can respond to the needs for diversity, inclusion, and trust. However, achieving this will take time and effort; therefore, it is essential to make each day productive. Think for yourself and encourage collaboration and cooperation.