Problem:
Adichie's experiences display bias and the reason why researching others work is so important to our own research. When we approach the idea of a theme or our hypothesis we are coming from a certain perspective wherein we have some experience and/or understanding. That in and of itself is bias, but that bias changes into real work with research. As we research and move in the direction of discovery we begin to uncover the truth, additionally we can uncover opportunities for growth and development. Adichie's story was interesting as she grew from child to adult, first pushing her own biases and then have to feel the bias that others had regarding her (Adichie, 2009). What I find is that she harbors frustration for the roommate who believed Adichie to be beneath her, but has learned a valuable lesson in the relationship. A single story can hurt. It can hurt the truth of the situation and cause opinions to be formed that are unfounded. It is our job as researchers to ensure the truth comes out unbiased so our readers can understand the facts......and just the facts.
Reference:
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's 2009 TED Talk titled, The Danger of a Single Story.