Adult’s attitudes learned as a child

Re “Prevalence and influence of racism,” letters, Dec. 29

The claim that humans are born with prejudice, racism and hate is not true. No one is born with hate. We arrive hard-wired with a few survival abilities, but the rest of our information comes from others, starting with our parents.

What children learn in their first five years is the basis of most people’s attitudes. Few break out of the prison of that early learning. This is not a secret to psychologists, dictators, religious leaders and those who wish to have their children accept their values, be they good or bad for the child.

Adults’ influence on children, for good or bad, is basic to adult thinking and behavior.

GEORGE CROLY

Santa Maria, Calif.