Mahzarin Banaji

The idea that people have biases that operate below the level of conscious thought is uncomfortable. But decades of research have found that many people who would never consciously agree with prejudiced statements against Black people, LGBTQ people or women can nonetheless harbor implicit biases toward these groups and others. Mahzarin Banaji, PhD, one of the pioneers of implicit bias research, talks about where implicit biases come from, the difference between implicit bias and prejudice, and which biases have lessened – and which have not – in recent years.     Links     Mahzarin Banaji, PhD     Speaking of Psychology Home Page   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.

Mahzarin Banaji, an experimental psychologist from Harvard known for her work on implicit bias, joins Bob Waldinger, a professor of psychiatry and director of the Harvard Study on Adult Development, to explore the power of change. They discuss how change is not only possible at any age but often essential for a fulfilling life. The conversation dives into cognitive biases, the importance of narratives in fostering empathy, and the dynamics of personal transformation, emphasizing that embracing change can lead to greater happiness and self-acceptance.