Differences in Assumptions about a Just World: Ethnicity and Point of View

Abstract

This study assessed assumptions individuals make about their own personal worlds or the world in general and assessed whether these assumptions differ for members of a majority or a minority group. Undergraduate students at the University of North Carolina responded to one of two forms of the World Assumptions Scale and the Just World Scale. One form was the original, and in the other all third-person singular pronouns were changed to first-person singular pronouns. Analyses revealed effects for form and ethnicity. These individuals saw their personal worlds as less random, more just, and more benevolent than they saw the world in general. Minority persons saw the world, personal or general, as less benevolent and less lucky. Order of presentation affected scores on the World Assumptions Scale, raising concerns about the stability of scores for that scale.