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Examples Of Bigotry In The Lottery By Shirley Jackson

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Shirley Jackson's short story "The Lottery", reveals the danger of normative traditions and behaviours becoming ingrained in social mores, in the absence of critical thinking. To elaborate, those who simply conform to practices are numbed to its consequences. Mr. Summers' lack of thought is revealed when he says: “… guess we better get this [killing] over with so’s we can go back to work.” (Jackson 2) His remark reveals an insensitive attitude to the proceeding, which will claim the life of one of his fellow citizens. Instead of questioning the value of such a rite, he adheres to the custom mindlessly. He has become inured to it and no longer questions its utility. Furthermore, failure to discern the reasons behind traditions result in bigotry.

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