Unveiling Biases: The Power of Information Sharing in Shaping Perception

Guest Author: Minnu Paul, Director of Global Education

In every moment of our day, we’re receiving information — from social media, friends, family, colleagues, and mentors. We live in a digital age where information spreads quickly, often without being verified. A single sentence can either empower or discourage us. And when we share these sentiments with others, we can unintentionally plant seeds of belief — true or not — that begin to shape decisions, relationships, and perceptions.

I started noticing the weight of this while working in higher education. Students would approach me with concerns rooted in misinformation or assumptions, and when I traced them back, I often found they stemmed from preconceived notions — subtle beliefs formed without enough evidence or personal experience.

What Are Preconceived Notions?

Preconceived notions are beliefs we hold before we have enough data or firsthand experience. They’re shaped by past experiences, media, upbringing, and societal messaging. When shared repeatedly within social groups, they begin to feel like truth — not just to us, but to those around us.

This is the effect of social contagion: the phenomenon where thoughts, emotions, and behaviors spread through social networks. Even if a belief begins with just one person, it can quickly ripple through a community.

Why It Matters

Preconceived notions can:

• Distort perception

• Fuel misinformation

• Increase emotional reactivity

• Create confirmation bias

• Limit personal and collective growth
  

When left unchecked, they can influence group morale, decision-making, and the way people show up in systems like education, work, and relationships.

So, What Can We Do?

We can’t always control what others believe — or even how conversations start. But we can take ownership of the exchange, resolution, and reflection that happen within our interactions.

Here’s a breakdown of how we can approach conversations with intention:

1. Exchange

This is the heart of communication — where we take turns sharing and listening.Instead of immediately agreeing or reacting, try:

• Listening with curiosity

• Validating emotions

• Staying open-minded

• Asking thoughtful questions

This doesn’t mean dismissing someone’s feelings — it means holding space while staying grounded.

2. Resolution

Not all conversations end in agreement, and that’s okay.But this phase is about understanding where each person stands and deciding how to move forward. Ask yourself:

• Is this belief rooted in evidence or assumption?

• Can I gather more information before I decide?

• Am I grounding this conversation in truth or emotion alone?
  

Having grace and courage in resolution can transform a reactive moment into a learning opportunity.

3. Reflection

This is a powerful internal process. After the conversation, consider:

• How did that make me feel?

• Did I reinforce or challenge a preconceived notion?

• What did I learn — about myself, others, or the system I’m part of?

• How can I show up differently next time?

There’s no perfect timeline or script for these steps. But by slowing down, listening deeply, and processing what we hear and share, we can reduce the spread of unhelpful narratives — and replace them with connection, clarity, and community growth.

Let’s speak with purpose, share with care, and reflect with honesty. That’s how we build more empowered, resilient conversations — and people.