1-2 Activity: Lens Exploration
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1-2 Activity: Lens Exploration
Before diving into this assignment, my knowledge about implicit bias was somewhat
limited, yet I was consciously aware of its existence and significance. I understood it as those
unintentional judgments or stereotypes we form about others without actively realizing it.
However, this assignment provided a deeper understanding of the topic showing me how
widespread implicit bias can be in many parts of our lives.
History Lens
Implicit bias isn't a new concept, it's been around since ancient times. Back then, societies
had social hierarchies that were often based on unspoken but widely accepted beliefs about
different groups of people. The subject is still very important today, but the way we talk about it
has changed. For example, in the 20th century, movements like Civil Rights in the U.S. made
people more aware of deep-rooted biases in society. There's a growing emphasis on
understanding and dealing with these hidden prejudices, particularly in important areas like law
enforcement, jobs, and healthcare. Researchers like Dr. Mahzarin Banaji and Dr. Anthony
Greenwald have written important books and studies that help us understand how these hidden
biases affect how we act and make decisions.
Humanities Lens
When you look at implicit bias through a humanities lens, it shows up in our art, books,
and culture. For example, the way characters are depicted in movies or TV shows can make
stereotypes stronger. This bias also influences how we view people who are different from us,
often making them feel like outsiders because of their race, religion, or gender. According to
Banaji & Greenwald (2013), “Economists, sociologists, and psychologists have confirmed time
and again that the social group to which a person belongs can be isolated as a definitive cause of
