KERA's Think
Does science explain racism?
Feb 5, 2025
Keon West, a social psychologist from Goldsmiths, University of London, dives deep into the science behind racism. He discusses how scientific methods reveal the persistence of racist beliefs and behaviors since the Civil Rights era. The conversation touches on racial discrimination in hiring practices and its profound effects on children's perceptions of identity. West also tackles systemic biases in police interactions and critiques workplace diversity training, advocating for informed strategies to foster genuine change in combating racism.
46:16
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Quick takeaways
- Racial bias significantly influences hiring practices, revealing that interview decisions are often driven by perceived racial identity rather than qualifications.
- Children as young as three manifest racist attitudes, highlighting that societal perceptions and biases are ingrained early in their development.
Deep dives
The Impact of Racial Bias in Hiring
Research shows that racial bias significantly affects hiring practices. In experiments where identical CVs were sent out with only the name changed to sound either white or black, the 'white' CVs received more callbacks and better offers. This pattern persists even when considering other racial groups, with hiring rates showing a clear hierarchy based on the perceived race of applicants. It underscores the systemic nature of discrimination, revealing that the interview process is not just about qualifications but is deeply influenced by racial identity.
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