Mere labeling of groups distorts perceptual estimates of their differences

Evidence

One famous piece of evidence for the biasing impact of categorization on perception comes from a study by Tajfel and Wilkes (1963). Like Allport, Tajfel and Wilkes conceived categorization (and stereotyping) to result in the overestimation of intergroup differences and intragroup resemblances. Participants estimated the length of a series of lines that varied from each other by regular increments. When shorter lines (As) were systematically given a different label than longer lines (Bs), participants overestimated the differences between the categories. This basic categorization effect applies to estimates about attitudes, traits, or even physical values (e.g., Krueger & Clement, 1994) and points to the biasing influence of categorization. However, it seems most pronounced when the judgment is uncertain, such as when participants communicate their estimates in an unfamiliar measurement unit (Corneille, Klein, Lambert, & Judd, 2002). — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1155 (#corroborates, via linked claim)

One famous piece of evidence for the biasing impact of categorization on perception comes from a study by Tajfel and Wilkes (1963). Like Allport, Tajfel and Wilkes conceived categorization (and stereotyping) to result in the overestimation of intergroup differences and intragroup resemblances. Participants estimated the length of a series of lines that varied from each other by regular increments. When shorter lines (As) were systematically given a different label than longer lines (Bs), participants overestimated the differences between the categories. This basic categorization effect applies to estimates about attitudes, traits, or even physical values (e.g., Krueger & Clement, 1994) and points to the biasing influence of categorization. However, it seems most pronounced when the judgment is uncertain, such as when participants communicate their estimates in an unfamiliar measurement unit (Corneille, Klein, Lambert, & Judd, 2002). — John F. Dovidio, Peter Glick, Laurie A. Rudman, On the Nature of Prejudice, 1155 (#exemplifies, via linked claim)

Categorization

• corroborated: 2 independent passages support this claim
• XREF: connects to: Labeling things beautiful destroys their perceived beauty — Freeman Tilden, Interpreting Our Heritage, 506; Mere categorization into a group triggers differentiation and discrimination; Mere labeling of category membership exaggerates perceived differences between groups. (+6 more)

Broader Connections

• Mere labeling of groups induces perceived intergroup differences even for neutral stimuli #corroborates (1.00) — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1155
• Merely labeling objects into two categories makes perceivers exaggerate differences between the groups. #exemplifies (0.95) — John F. Dovidio, Peter Glick, Laurie A. Rudman, On the Nature of Prejudice, 1155