Blinkering: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term derives from 'blinker', referring to a device that limits a person's vision, like horse blinders that keep horses from looking sideways.
• Originally, blinkering referred specifically to the physical blinkers used on horses to keep them focused on the path ahead.

Psychology

• Cognitive blinkering often occurs when someone is overly focused on one aspect of a situation and misses important details, leading to poor decision-making.
• This concept can explain why people frequently follow the same routines or beliefs, blocking out alternative viewpoints.

Pop Culture

• In popular media, characters who are blinkered often face challenges or conflicts because they refuse to acknowledge evidence that contradicts their views.
• Songs and literature sometimes use blinkering to emphasize narrow-mindedness, highlighting the importance of perspective.

Education

• In academic settings, blinkering can hinder critical thinking and creativity, as students may concentrate too much on one theory or method, ignoring others.
• Encouraging diverse viewpoints and interdisciplinary approaches in education helps to counteract blinkering.

Political Science

• In politics, blinkering refers to the tendency of individuals or groups to focus solely on their agenda, ignoring broader societal issues.
• Political campaigns often employ strategies that deliberately blinkered potential voters, directing attention away from critical issues.