In a thought-provoking evening held in Ireland, participants gathered for a Capacity Building event that used cinema as a tool to examine critical issues of bias and justice. The centerpiece of the event was the screening of the iconic film “12 Angry Men,” a timeless exploration of jury deliberations, cognitive biases, and the dynamics of justice.
The evening began with a warm welcome, where participants were introduced to the event’s objectives and engaged with the broader theme of the project. Following this, they watched the classic 1957 film, which provided a dramatic and insightful narrative to spark discussion and critical analysis.
“12 Angry Men” follows the deliberations of a jury as they decide the fate of a young defendant. The film exposes how personal biases, preconceptions, and group dynamics influence decision-making in high-stakes environments. Despite its age, the movie remains a powerful lens through which to explore concepts of justice and fairness.
After the screening, participants delved into a guided discussion. Prompted by targeted questions, they reflected on the biases portrayed in the film and connected these insights to broader societal issues. Key questions encouraged participants to think deeply about topics such as:
- The nature and prevalence of cognitive and unconscious biases in jury settings.
- Whether an entirely unbiased jury is achievable.
- What constitutes a “peer” in the context of a jury and how jury members should be selected to ensure fairness.
The discussion was enriched by a brief presentation on the psychological concepts of cognitive and unconscious bias, helping participants recognize and articulate the various biases depicted in the film. This facilitated a more informed dialogue about how these biases manifest in real-life justice systems and decision-making processes.
The event concluded with reflections on the themes explored throughout the evening and a closing summary of the key takeaways.
Why “12 Angry Men” Was the Perfect Choice
This classic film proved to be an ideal medium for promoting critical thinking and stimulating dialogue. At just 96 minutes long, it offered a concise yet impactful narrative. Its 1957 production provided additional layers for discussion, showcasing the cultural and systemic biases of the time in both its content and portrayal of justice. Participants were able to compare the film’s depiction of juries with real-life practices, bridging the gap between cinematic storytelling and contemporary legal and societal issues.
A Platform for Meaningful Reflection
This capacity-building event demonstrated the power of storytelling in fostering critical dialogue about complex topics. By combining film, discussion, and educational insights, it created a space for participants to reflect on their own perspectives, challenge assumptions, and consider the implications of bias in systems meant to uphold fairness and justice.
Events like these highlight the value of using creative approaches to engage with challenging issues, leaving participants inspired and better equipped to approach these topics in their personal and professional lives.