On Being with Krista Tippett Mahzarin Banaji — The Mind Is a Difference-Seeking Machine
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Aug 23, 2018 
Mahzarin Banaji, a prominent social psychologist and co-author of "Blindspot," discusses the intricate workings of implicit bias and its societal implications. She emphasizes how our minds seek differences, leading to biases that can affect social interactions. Banaji advocates for moving past guilt to embrace personal growth. The conversation touches on the dynamics of fear and stereotypes, particularly towards marginalized groups, highlighting the transformative power of understanding and positive intergroup interactions.
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Zoroastrian Heritage
- Mahzarin Banaji, raised Zoroastrian, notes the religion's dwindling numbers due to non-acceptance of conversion and low birth rates.
- She expresses a unique pride in belonging to this historically significant yet vanishing community.
Comfort in Difference
- Banaji's comfort in the US stems from its immigrant nature, contrasting with her experience as a minority in India.
- This relates to her work on "the other," as the US offers a sense of belonging despite difference.
Early Interest in the Unconscious
- Banaji recalls her dissertation committee meeting where she proposed studying repression, a Freudian concept.
- An experiment showing physiological recognition of one's voice despite conscious non-recognition fascinated her.
