Unconscious bias affects our perceptions from "summary" of Blink by Malcolm Gladwell
In the blink of an eye, our brains make snap judgments based on a myriad of factors, some of which we may not even be aware of. These snap judgments are influenced by our unconscious biases, shaping the way we perceive the world around us. When we are presented with new information or meet someone for the first time, our brains quickly categorize and make assumptions based on our past experiences and societal norms. These unconscious biases can lead us to make snap judgments that may not accurately reflect reality. For example, in a study conducted by psychologist John Bargh, participants were primed with words related to the elderly before engaging in a task. As a result, they walked more slowly after the task, demonstrating how unconscious biases can influence our behavior without our awareness. Our perceptions are also shaped by cultural stereotypes and societal norms that have been ingrained in us since childhood. These biases can influence how we perceive others based on their race, gender, or social status, leading to unfair treatment or discrimination. In one study discussed by Gladwell, orchestra auditions were held behind a screen to eliminate bias based on gender. As a result, the number of women selected for orchestras increased significantly, highlighting how unconscious biases can impact decision-making processes.- Our unconscious biases affect our perceptions in ways that we may not always realize. By becoming more aware of these biases and actively working to counteract them, we can strive to make more informed and fair judgments in our daily lives.
