Seth Ulinski
Sep 5, 2018 · 1 min read

The belief that taller people are smarter, more powerful, or “better” can be attributed to the brain’s hard-wiring, known as hueristics, in psychology. Height is a proxy for social status and health.

While height bias is bad, I chalk up heightism as evil…sexism and racism do not get a hall pass, why should heightism? It isn’t just bullies, as Georgina alludes to — friends and family members may unwittingly take part in “fun.” Some individuals may embrace jokes and jabs, using it to fuel their fire. Others may succumb to a defeatist mindset. Studies show that men below average height (5'10'’ in the U.S.) will face height headwinds in areas such as online dating and attaining leadership positions. Everyone has a different perspective on what is considered “short.” I am 5'7'’ and wrote a book exploring height bias with the goal of helping smaller people (men in particular) build their presence…when a guy at my gym read an article on the book, he told me I was silly for writing it and that I wasn’t even short (he’s 5'5'’). So much for us being part of the same short guy fraternity. Height bias and heightism are polarizing topics that need more attention. Well done, Georgina!

    Seth Ulinski

    Written by

    Market researcher and fitness enthusiast. 5'7" and always growing. Author of Amazing Heights: How Short Guys Stand Tall