Our Biases Can Be Dangerous Even Deadly As We've Seen In The

Our Biases Can Be Dangerous Even Deadly As Weve Seen In The Cases

Our biases can be dangerous, even deadly — as we've seen in the cases of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, and Eric Garner, in Staten Island, New York. Diversity advocate Vern Myers looks closely at some of the subconscious attitudes we hold toward out-groups. Instructions: View the How to Overcome our Biases? Walk Boldly Toward Them video. Take the Implicit Association Test (IAT). Post your reaction to the IAT results. Do you agree or disagree? Why? Why not? Write an original post (at least 240 words or more) on your thoughts, feelings and similar experiences. Use at least one reference to support your ideas. Respond to one of your classmate's posting with meaningful answers.

Paper For Above instruction

The recognition of biases, particularly implicit biases, is fundamental to understanding how subconscious attitudes influence behavior, often with serious consequences. The cases of Michael Brown and Eric Garner exemplify how racial biases can escalate into deadly encounters, highlighting the critical need to address these unconscious attitudes. The Implicit Association Test (IAT) serves as a tool to unearth hidden biases by measuring automatic associations between different concepts, such as race and threat. My own IAT results revealed a slight preference for Caucasians over African Americans, which I found both revealing and unsettling. I agree with the premise that implicit biases are pervasive and can unconsciously influence decisions and actions, often reinforcing existing societal inequalities.

Understanding my results prompted introspection about how societal stereotypes shape perceptions and behaviors, often without conscious awareness. For instance, I have noticed that, in stressful situations, my immediate reactions can be influenced by stereotypes I am unaware I harbor. Research by Greenwald and Banaji (1995) underscores this point, indicating that implicit biases are deeply rooted in socialization and operate independently of explicit beliefs. Recognizing these biases is the first step toward mitigating their impact through deliberate effort and awareness.

Addressing implicit biases requires comprehensive strategies including diversity training, conscious reflection, and exposure to different perspectives. For example, organizations implementing bias mitigation programs report increased awareness and more equitable decision-making (Devine et al., 2012). Such initiatives help individuals recognize their unconscious biases and actively work against them, fostering more inclusive environments. While I do not believe biases are entirely avoidable, I am convinced that ongoing self-awareness and deliberate action can reduce their harmful effects, ultimately contributing to social justice and equality.

In conclusion, the societal and personal significance of understanding and overcoming implicit biases cannot be overstated. The tragic outcomes of racial biases in law enforcement exemplify the urgent need for continuous efforts to recognize and challenge these subconscious attitudes. By engaging in reflective practices like the IAT and fostering open dialogues, individuals and institutions can take meaningful steps toward reducing bias and promoting fairness. My own experience with the IAT has reinforced the importance of humility and ongoing self-examination in the journey toward equity.

References

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Greenwald, A. G., & Banaji, M. R. (1995). implicit social cognition: Attitudes, self-esteem, and stereotypes. Psychological Review, 102(1), 4–27.

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Stone, J., & McWhorter, J. (2018). The psychology of implicit bias and its implications for social justice. Psychology Today, Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com

Hugenberg, K., & Bodenhausen, G. V. (2004). Ambiguity and prejudice: Do category ambiguity and cognitive busyness increase prejudice?. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 87(5), 763–779.

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