Introduction to Implicit Bias

Written by a diverse range of scholars, this accessible introductory volume asks: What is implicit bias? How does implicit bias compromise our knowledge of others and social reality? How does implicit bias affect us, as individuals and participants in larger social and political institutions, and what can we do to combat biases? An interdisciplinary enterprise, the volume brings together the philosophical perspective of the humanities with the perspective of the social sciences to develop rich lines of inquiry. Its twelve chapters are written in a non-technical style, using relatable examples that help readers understand what implicit bias is, its significance, and the controversies surrounding it. Each chapter includes discussion questions and additional annotated reading suggestions, and a companion webpage contains teaching resources. The volume is an invaluable resource for students—and researchers—seeking to understand criticisms surrounding implicit bias, as well as how one might answer them by adopting a more nuanced understanding of bias and its role in maintaining social injustice.

"The science of implicit bias is rather complex--much more complex than suggested by the dominant polarized views in the public discourse. The current volume is unique for embracing this complexity in answering broad philosophical questions about implicit bias. A highly accessible must-read for everyone interested in a nuanced view on the science of implicit bias and its significance for society." ⁠— Bertram Gawronski, Professor of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, USA"This is an absolutely fantastic, much-needed book. People seeking a textbook will find wonderfully accessible writing on an important issue that is bound to really draw students in. But this isn't just a textbook: the essays are written by top scholars, absolutely current with the latest scholarship in this fast-moving field. Even those who are themselves experts in the area will gain much from reading this volume which tackle some of the most difficult issues in the area in a careful, fair-minded manner." — Jennifer Saul, University of Waterloo, Canada

Erin Beeghly is Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of Utah. She has received fellowships from the National Humanities Center, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the American Council for Learned Societies. Alex Madva is Assistant Professor of Philosophy and Director of the California Center for Ethics and Policy at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. He has run numerous workshops and training sessions on implicit bias, stereotype threat, and impostor syndrome for schools, courts, and wider audiences.