Critique Of Michelson And Harrison's Theory Of Transforming Prejudice

Jessica Petty

Dr. Frederick

POLI 369-CO1

May 3, 2023

Transforming Prejudice

In their book, Transforming Prejudice, authors Melissa Michelson and Brian Harrison detail the struggles that the transgender movement has faced in their fight to “reduce extremism and closed-mindedness” (13). They provide insight into why strategies that were successful among the broader LGB community have failed to influence public opinion regarding transgender identity and issues. Michelson and Harrison introduce a new theory which they refer to as The Theory of Identity Reassurance, which they predict will be more impactful in shifting public opinion and “speeding up the proverbial moral arc of the universe to more quickly bend towards justice” (24). While

It operates from the core premise that personal identity and self-esteem are key predictors of how and to what extent a message will be received. According to Michaelson and Harrison, attempts to change attitude are often perceived as threats if they appear to be inconsistent with existing value systems. Threats to self-esteem and identity will almost certainly “trigger emotional and defensive responses” (51). Thus, in order to ensure a message is received effectively, The Theory of Identity Reassurance appeals to recipient’s preexisting value system, affirming their own identity and self-esteem, while challenging them to link these preexisting values to issues concerning transgender rights. Notably, it does not require them to dismiss or deny any discomfort they may feel, instead, it “meets them where they are and encourages them to be their best selves” (53). It appeals to their sense of “moral elevation” (as most desire to be seen as a moral person who values justice and is intolerant of discrimination) promoting messaging which “confirms and bolsters their self-esteem as a morally righteous person” (53). In short, Michaelson and Harrison maintain that making others feel better about themselves encourages them to be accepting of others