When people refuse to learn about an unfamiliar group, the primary cause is identity protection bias, where the brain views new information as a threat to its existing worldview and social standing. This is an emotional defense mechanism that triggers willful ignorance to avoid psychological discomfort. By reframing the unfamiliar group as individual humans rather than abstract concepts, you lower their neurological threat response and allow curiosity to naturally replace hostility.

We all can do better when we all learn more, the truth will set us free, like Sagan said!