Recognizing Our Inherent Biases

Every individual possesses biases, regardless of how compassionate we aim to be. This is a natural aspect of human cognition. Our brains utilize quick judgments to help process a vast array of information efficiently—this evolutionary feature has historically been crucial for survival.

However, these instincts, shaped for survival in simpler, more perilous environments, may falter in our complex, contemporary world. When scenarios demand critical thinking and open-mindedness, unchecked biases can lead to real-world consequences.

While we cannot entirely eliminate biases, we can take proactive steps to mitigate their impact in our professional lives. Here’s how to start.

Step 1: Cultivating Self-Awareness

Jennifer Eberhardt, a professor at Stanford and author of "Biased: Uncovering the Hidden Prejudice That Shapes What We See, Think, and Do," emphasizes that the first step in managing biases is recognizing them.

But how can we uncover unconscious biases? Researchers from Harvard University have developed a free test through their Project Implicit initiative, designed to help individuals identify their implicit biases across various categories such as race, age, religion, sexuality, and disability. This test provides an opportunity to reflect on personal attitudes before revealing the results, allowing for a deeper understanding of any discrepancies between conscious beliefs and implicit biases.

Taking this test can lead to surprising realizations about one's beliefs versus actual biases, which is entirely expected. The key takeaway is that acknowledging this process is a positive first step towards growth.

Step 2: Practicing Mindfulness

With an understanding of your biases in place, the next step is to become more mindful in decision-making. Techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices can be beneficial here.

Before making a decision, pause and take a deep breath. Reflect on the following:

• Am I approaching this decision objectively?
• Are there biases influencing my judgment?
• Have I considered all possible options?

These questions serve as a starting point. It's crucial to incorporate this practice into your routine, especially in situations where biases might go unnoticed. A small reminder, like a sticky note, can help keep this practice at the forefront of your mind.

Step 3: Establishing Lasting Habits

To ensure that bias reflection becomes a regular practice, it's essential to cultivate systematic habits. Here are a few effective methods:

If you're in a project management role, integrate bias reflection into your project planning. This could begin as personal reflection but should evolve into a collaborative effort with your team. Accountability is vital; research indicates that having someone to support your goals increases your likelihood of success significantly.

If you're working independently, consider utilizing behavior chains (if-then planning). This simple yet powerful technique can significantly enhance your chances of success. For instance:

• If I am about to implement a new feature in my code,
• Then I will pause to reflect on any biases that might affect my decisions.

For those developing algorithms, such as facial recognition systems, ensure your dataset is diverse, representing various demographics before proceeding with model development.

Lastly, maintain a progress log for 30 days. Establishing a new habit typically requires consistent effort over this period.

Step 4: Continuous Learning

Recognizing biases and implementing strategies to address them is an ongoing journey. As society continues to evolve, so too does our understanding of bias and its implications.

Engage with resources from tech ethics organizations, such as All Tech is Human, and watch documentaries like "Coded Bias," which highlights the significant ethical challenges in technology, particularly regarding racial bias in facial recognition technologies.

Encourage open dialogue about bias with colleagues and remain receptive to the experiences of those around you. Consider following diverse voices on social media to gain insights into different perspectives.

While we cannot eradicate biases entirely, striving towards a systematic approach that acknowledges them in our daily work is a vital step towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

The first video titled "How to Outsmart Your Own Unconscious Bias" by Valerie Alexander offers insights on recognizing and managing unconscious biases in everyday life.

The second video, "Unconscious Bias @ Work" from Google Ventures, discusses the impact of biases in the workplace and strategies for mitigating their effects.