A new article in Psychology Today has shed light on a persistent human trait: our tendency to resist anything unfamiliar—a phenomenon that impacts Thai society and communities worldwide in subtle but powerful ways. Recent research highlights how fear of difference is nurtured not just by our brains’ wiring but by deeply embedded societal lessons learned from family, school, and cultural narratives as we grow up (Psychology Today).
The significance of these findings lies in their resonance with ongoing social, educational, and cultural challenges across Thailand. As Thai society becomes more diverse—whether through ethnic communities in the North, the southern Malay-speaking provinces, or Bangkok’s increasingly international population—the question of how we react to “the other” has real implications for social harmony, inclusiveness in education policy, and economic opportunity. By understanding why humans instinctively draw comfort from the familiar and label the different as potentially risky, we can begin to address sources of prejudice and open doors to creativity and collaboration that are essential in an interconnected world.
Researchers and psychologists, including the author of the article, stress that resistance to difference has roots in both biology and social conditioning. Fear evolved as a survival mechanism—early humans who remained cautious about the unknown were less likely to endanger themselves. But in modern times, the same instinct often translates into ingrained prejudice. From early childhood, the behaviours and beliefs modelled by parents, teachers, and community elders quietly shape our perceptions of what is “safe” or “normal” versus what is “other.” If children hear warnings about certain religions, ethnic groups, or ways of life, those narratives take root, lasting into adulthood even without negative personal experience.
The article points to historical and contemporary examples—ranging from the persecution of minorities to resistance against advances in science or new social movements—as cases where irrational fear of difference caused lasting harm (Grossmann, 2022). Within Thailand’s own history, similar patterns are visible: periodic fears over “foreign influence” in education reforms, policy debates about curriculum content from abroad, xenophobic attitudes during periods of economic stress, and hesitancy toward integrating new technologies in businesses.
But why does this fear persist, even when it’s counterproductive? Fear feeds on uncertainty and lack of exposure. Culturally, sharing meals with new neighbours, experiencing festivals from other regions—such as Songkran in the North or Deepavali in the South—or reading literature from different perspectives, all provide antidotes to this fear. Unfortunately, as digital platforms amplify divisive or sensationalist content, the unknown is often framed as a threat rather than an opportunity to learn, reinforcing existing biases and deepening divides.
Notably, fear can also stifle national growth. Thai business leaders acknowledge that insularity and reluctance to adopt international best practices have, at times, restrained economic competitiveness. Educational researchers at a leading Thai university point to evidence that open, diverse learning environments improve academic outcomes, encourage innovation, and better prepare students for a globalized workforce (OECD report on Thailand’s education systems). In health and social policy, overcoming stigma around mental illness or HIV/AIDS has required campaigns designed to break down irrational fears—something echoed in the successful reduction of HIV transmission rates after public education efforts (UNAIDS Thailand data).
Expert voices underline that the challenge is not insurmountable. Insights from social psychology suggest fear of difference, while deeply ingrained, is not immutable. The article offers pragmatic guidance through three actionable steps: seeking exposure to the unfamiliar; becoming aware of one’s own gut reactions and biases; and viewing change as an invitation rather than a threat. “Real personal growth happens when you venture beyond your comfort zone, questioning your assumptions, embracing new experiences, and listening to different perspectives,” notes the article’s author, a clinical psychologist.
Thai educators have recognized this principle: programs that encourage students to engage in exchange programmes with ASEAN neighbours, or language policies that promote English and Mandarin alongside Thai, are designed to broaden horizons, foster mutual understanding, and reduce fear of difference (Ministry of Education Thailand). Similarly, Bangkok’s creative industry boom is in part due to collaborations between locals and international artists, where “the unfamiliar” has fueled new genres in music, design, and cuisine.
Culturally, Thailand has a long tradition of integrating outside influences and adapting them to local contexts, from the Indian Buddhist roots of Loy Krathong to the synthesis of Western and Thai medicine practiced in urban hospitals. Yet, as contemporary sociologists observe, there is always a cultural tension between openness and preservation—a tension visible in debates over school dress codes, teaching of ethnic minority languages, and the embrace of digital learning platforms since the COVID-19 pandemic (Bangkok Post education coverage).
Looking forward, the implications of this research are profound. As Thailand grapples with the social shifts of the 21st century—aging demographics, the arrival of AI, and global migration—how society responds to “difference” will define its resilience. The fear of difference may hold back progress in health, education, and the economy, but by intentionally seeking out new experiences and challenging inherited assumptions, both individuals and institutions can cultivate curiosity over caution.
For Thai readers, the takeaway is clear and actionable. Take small steps to encounter new perspectives: attend cultural events outside your everyday circle, try books and movies from different cultures, listen (without judgment) to stories from people whose backgrounds differ from yours, and support school or workplace initiatives that promote diversity and critical thinking. On a policy level, continued investment in bilingual education, fostering inclusive workplaces, and supporting public information campaigns that celebrate—not just tolerate—difference will help unlock national potential.
The journey from fear to curiosity is not always comfortable, but as Thailand’s own experience shows, some of the country’s greatest strengths have emerged from the embrace of difference—be it in religion, art, commerce, or education. Meeting the unknown with an open heart and mind is ultimately how a society remains vibrant, innovative, and united.
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