A Class Divided (1985)

Imagine stepping into a classroom where your eye color determines your worth. This was the reality for a group of third graders in A Class Divided, a powerful 1985 documentary that showcases an experiment on prejudice and discrimination Elliott, a teacher in Riceville, Iowa, conducted this bold exercise the day after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.

Now, what if I told you that the color of your eyes could make you smarter or dumber in the eyes of others? Sounds absurd, right? Well, that’s exactly what the students in Elliott’s class experienced. She divided her class by eye color, labeling one group as superior and the other as inferior. The blue-eyed children were treated with privileges, while the brown-eyed ones faced discrimination.

The results were eye-opening. The favored group performed better academically and became bossy and arrogant, while the discriminated group’s performance dipped, and they became timid and subservient. This shift happened rapidly, showing just how quickly discrimination can affect individuals.

Years later, the students reunited to discuss the impact of that day. They recalled feelings of shame and confusion and the realization that discrimination was not just a word, but a painful reality. Elliott’s experiment had a lasting effect, teaching them the destructive power of prejudice.

Elliott didn’t stop with her class. She took her lesson nationwide, advocating for equality and challenging people to examine their own biases. Her work has been a significant contribution to the conversation on race and discrimination in America.

A Class Divided is more than a documentary; it’s a lesson in empathy and understanding. It challenges viewers to confront their prejudices and inspires educators to think creatively about their teaching methods. The film remains relevant today, as it continues to provoke discussions on how we perceive and treat each other based on superficial traits.

The documentary serves as a reminder that education can be a powerful tool against bigotry. It encourages us to question societal norms and to treat each other with respect and dignity, regardless of our differences. In a world where discrimination still exists, A Class Divided stands as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive society.

Now, I’ve shared quite a bit about this impactful documentary. It’s a clear example of how a simple classroom activity can reveal deep-seated societal issues. The film not only educates but also motivates us to be better individuals. If you haven’t seen it yet, it’s worth your time. It might just change the way you see the world.