Question

Imagine if you had taken part in Jane Elliott’s exercise. How do you think it would have felt to be part of the ""inferior"" group? Should schools use exercises like this to teach children about discrimination?

Answer 1

I think it would feel awful to be part of the inferior group, because you are all of the sudden getting treated worse and having to live as though you’re less than, just because of a difference in your eye color. I think this was a great way to teach the kids about discrimination because it got them to understand how irrational racism is, and how it feels to be the one treated as though they’re less than.

Answer 2

Schools should use Elliott's exercise because it brings out innate behaviors and prejudices within children. By exposing how one group can develop a belief of superiority, Elliott conveys the dangers of out-group versus in-group behavior.