Commentary | October 19, 2010

Readers discuss their experiences with stereotypes and snap judgments

Have you had stereotypes applied to you? Do you notice your own snap judgments? Join our reader discussion.

From The November-December 2010 Issue

Amy Cuddy, a social psychologist at Harvard Business School, studies the role of snap judgments and first impressions in our lives—in everything from hiring decisions to genocide. Read about her work in the November-December issue, then join our reader discussion.

Tell us about a stereotype or snap judgment that was applied to you, and the consequences.

Do you try to compensate for your own snap judgments (or will you, after reading this article)? How?

See what other readers are saying, and then join the conversation by leaving your own comment. (This discussion is moderated, so your comment may not appear immediately.)

Published in the November-December 2010 print issue under the headline “Your Take: Stereotypes and Snap Judgments,” in the section.

Related topics

You might also like

A man in a dark suit sits at a table in an elegant room with historical decor.

Making Waves with Philosophy

A conversation with Harvard professor Michael Sandel

A jubilant graduate shouts into a megaphone, surrounded by a cheering crowd.

For Campus Speech, Civility is a Cultural Practice

A former Harvard College dean reviews Princeton President Christopher Eisgruber’s book Terms of Respect.

Skyline view of Harvard University with trees in autumn colors and a river under a cloudy sky.

Your Views on Conservatism on Campus, Doxxing, and More

Readers write in about international students at Harvard, the September-October cover, and changes at the Chan School of Public Health.

Most popular

Red letter "A" overblurred lawn with colorful chairs in the background.

Harvard Faculty Approve a Cap on A Grades

Reforms to reduce grade inflation will take effect in the fall of 2027.

Harvard University tower with a red and gold dome against a blue sky.

Harvard Discloses Top Earners’ Compensation

The University files its annual report for tax-exempt organizations.

Three speakers at a panel discussion in front of an audience, with Harvard branding.

Harvard Holds a Symposium on Antisemitism and Universities

Scholars discuss the paradoxes and challenges that Jews navigate on college campuses.

Explore More From Current Issue

A woman in glasses gestures while speaking to two attentive listeners at a table.

How to Cook with Wild Plants

From wild greens spanakopita to rose petal panna cotta, forager and chef Ellen Zachos makes one-of-a-kind meals.

Three joyful graduates in caps and gowns celebrate together outdoors.

Your Harvard 2026 Commencement Week Guide

College reunions and Alumni Day will take place the following week

White House and Harvard University buildings split diagonally with contrasting colors.

Harvard in the Crosshairs

Harvard Weathers a Year of Turmoil

The federal government has launched unprecedented actions against the University. Here’s a guide.