5. Projection

Projection In psychology and psychoanalysis, “projection” generally refers to a pathological tendency to impute one’s own unwanted internal states or weaknesses to others. We also amplify and project good qualities and thereby idealize others. Or we may simply assume others are more like ourselves than they really are—this is a well-documented tendency known as the “false consensus effect.” These diverse forms of projection each bring their own problems. Projection of negative feelings or self-conceptions can lead us to bully others, victim-blame, or sabotage our relationships. Idealization can lead us to follow another blindly, as happens in cults. Or, we may set our idealized relationships up for disenchantment down the line. The false consensus effect is a relatively benign form of projection, but it is still a poor way of relating to others—and in our current moral and political echo-chambers, it feels less than helpful. If projection is so problematic, why do we do it? We don’t have immediate access to others’ experience, so it makes sense that the starting place for understanding others is to project our own experiences onto them. This is perfectly fine. However, projection becomes problematic when it is not a starting point for coming to know someone but instead a finishing point that shuts down the quest to understand and empathize with others. As such, projection differs subtly from perspective-taking and cognitive empathy. When you try to see things from another’s point of view, you begin by acknowledging their unique context and features, and you do your best to understand them as they really are. Projection is a much lazier way of imputing attitudes, motives, and character traits to others. Rather than doing the work to understand another’s unique perspective, projection covers over the reality with one’s own feelings, fears, or self-conceptions. How can an appreciation of projection discipline our thinking? 1. Notice when you’re projecting: When you realize you’re projecting, you can step back and analyze, revising any incorrect assumptions. 2. Stay curious: Remain open to changing your mind. Be on the lookout for new information that can contextualize or nuance your understanding. Communicate with others and really listen to what they are telling you, both in their speech and their actions. 3. Embrace nuance and complexity: We have much in common with others. Yet, we are not monoliths or carbon copies. Never forget that each person and situation is unique. 4. Hermeneutic Heuristics: Err on the side of generosity when you are likely to be ungenerous. But err on the side of suspicion when you are likely to idealize. We tend to vilify outgroup members and idealize in-group members, projecting evil and good respectively. Both victim blaming and hero worship are problematic.