Prepossessed: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'praepossessus,' meaning 'seized beforehand.'
• It is formed from 'pre-' meaning before, and 'possess', which refers to having something, either physically or in thought.
• The use of the word dates back to the 17th century, indicating a long history in the English language.

Psychology

• Prepossessions can influence decision making, often leading to overlooked facts.
• Cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias, arise when prepossessed views lead individuals to favor information that confirms their beliefs.
• Awareness of prepossessed ideas is key in fostering open-mindedness and critical thinking.

Literature

• Authors often depict characters who are prepossessed by ideas, showcasing their inner conflicts when confronted by new information.
• In literary critique, understanding a character's prepossessed notions can reveal deeper themes about society and human nature.
• The portrayal of prepossessions in classic literature often serves as a mirror for societal norms and changes.

Culture

• In various cultures, prepossessed beliefs can affect interpersonal relationships, creating barriers to understanding.
• Media and advertising often play on prepossessed notions to shape public opinion, making it a significant area for study in communications.
• Social norms and values can also be prepossessing, influencing behavior even in diverse global contexts.

Philosophy

• Philosophers argue that prepossessions can limit one's worldview, promoting a more dogmatic approach to beliefs.
• Existentialist thinkers emphasize understanding and questioning personal prepossessions for authentic living.
• The challenges of prepossessions are also central to debates in ethics, questioning how bias shapes moral decisions.