Session 3: Confront Learned Stereotypes with the PFC

During the last session we learned about the role of the lizard brain in unconscious fear-based learning largely propagated by the media. This "learning" (which happens even in the brains of the oppressed) skews decisions, interprets information inaccurately and changes our physiology. Thankfully, humans also have an area of the brain that can overcome this more ancient wiring giving us opportunity to reflect and confront our biases and make better decisions. In this session, we will examine the role of higher order thinking, slowing down decision making and creating more diverse communities to lay the foundation of a more equitable society.

Lesson Summary

Session 3 focuses on confronting learned stereotypes with the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Here's what you need to know:

• The lizard brain is responsible for unconscious fear-based learning, often influenced by the media.
• This type of learning can lead to skewed decisions, inaccurate interpretation of information, and physiological changes, affecting even the brains of the oppressed.
• Humans have the PFC, which is capable of overcoming this primitive wiring, enabling us to reflect on and challenge our biases for better decision-making.
• This session will explore higher order thinking, the importance of slowing down decision-making processes, and the value of fostering diverse communities.
• Ultimately, the aim is to establish a foundation for a more equitable society by addressing and confronting stereotypes.