Everly’s friend Sophie discusses the history of slavery with her. "...You and I both know there's a difference between prejudice and obliviousness but sometimes it can have the same result." Do you agree?

Everly's friend Sophie discusses the history of slavery with her. "Much of that history is awful…Most don't want to know it…You and I both know there's a difference between prejudice and obliviousness but sometimes it can have the same result." Do you agree? Do you think this has changed any in the 21st century?

Yes, I believe prejudice and obliviousness to prejudice can have the same result - specifically, negative result. Worse yet is knowing and still not taking action. A powerful quote from Martin Luther King Jr. - “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.”

I also agree that both prejudice and obliviousness are equal in their ability to cause negative results. Both are problematic, especially when it comes to racism. Technically the two are different, but both cause people to shrug their shoulders and look the other way instead of standing up another human being.

I concur. Obliviousness is a luxury afforded to those in privileged positions. That or prejudice both have negative consequences.

Same result but neither is excusable. I feel it was very common in the 1800s for oblivion to be overlooked. But humans have always been human and therefore I don’t give anyone “back then” any sort of pass.

Possibly one of the best lines in the entire novel! Being from the south, this statement strikes a chord in me. Hurt is hurt, no matter the intention.
Thankfully, we (especially women) are encouraged today to "listen" to that still small voice inside that is screaming right from wrong and have the ability to both speak and up and take action.

Absolutely obliviousness and prejudice can both result in painfulness and hurt. It is my belief that in the 21st Century there is more obliviousness that actual active prejudice or unconscious bias. From my study of American history, it is evident that society as a whole , but particularly in the south, were taught from infancy that some people were less ‘human’ than others. It is still inconceivable to me that this belief persisted throughout much of America through at least the 1960s. Some people remain clueless today.primarily out of thoughtlessness. I am grateful that I was raised to treat everyone with the same respect, kindness, and courtesy.

Absolutely…these people were raised their whole life this way and would never have given thought to it being wrong.

I guess I never thought of it this way, but I agree. Both can have the same result and neither are excusable.