TedTalk: The Danger of a Single Story by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
This TedTalk is a suggested research activity in the ACI3633 module 3 handbook (p35). However, it is a great video suitable for all modules. The purpose of this video is to change your own perspective as a student within the learning process of BAPP. To understand that there can be more than one thought, one route, one opinion, one interpretation. What is previously assumed is due to something you previously knew.
What are my thoughts on this video?
The first idea I took away from watching this was that everything is an incomplete story. As humans, we can be quick to pre-judge, develop a stereotype, subconsciously have a 'tunnel vision' and indulge in having a narrow perspective on things. Each set of eyes will see differently, and you cannot physically BE someone else. Not their vision, or any other senses. Empathy is such a powerful tool, but we are responsible for our own vision.
Another theme that ran throughout the video was having a different beginning of a story led to a different story altogether. Events happen in life, and the combination of events and their probability of occurring is how life happens. Is there such a thing as luck? Coincidence?
An engaging phrase that Chimamanda stated was how single stories can rob people of their dignity. Of their chance to cement their identity. How can people share their stories if others have a preempted idea of it?
In relation of my inquiry topic (how much resilience dancers have to maintain a healthy mind and body) the key points in this video is important to remember when carrying out my data analysis. The danger of a single story, in this case being my own experiences, is also pivotal for my interviews. To NOT seek out the answers I want, but to discover something new. Perhaps something I had not considered before.
I believe in the power of stories, but after watching this video I do not believe in the goodness of a single story, as there are many cogs to the wheel and many colours of a spectrum. The more understanding humans have for each other without prejudice, the more WHOLESOME we may feel!
Thank you for bringing this TED talk to my attention, it actually ties in brilliantly with not only the blog I put up a few days ago but a blog im thinking about next coming from M1 handbook and talking about 'experiences' One of the lenses.
ReplyDeleteI think you are right to question yourself within your Inquiry. How can you be open if you are already assuming the answers to the questions you your self have asked. So using your experiences is a great starting point, but maybe that will take you further than you realise?